On the 11th of July 2024, the Supreme Court of Nigeria made a landmark decision affirming the financial autonomy of the country’s 774 local governments. This ruling delivered by a seven-member panel of the court unanimously supported the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance the independence of Local Governments nationwide. Justice Emmanuel Agim, a member of the panel emphasized in the lead judgement that local governments should begin receiving their allocations directly from the Accountant-General of the Federation starting Thursday 11th July 2024.
The judgement reinforced Section 7 (1) of the 1999 constitution as amended, which unequivocally states that “The system of local government by democratically elected local government councils is guaranteed under this constitution, and accordingly, the Government of every State shall ensure their existence under a law which provides for their establishment.”
The lndmark decision by the Apex Court has finally freed Local Government chairmen from the constraints imposed by State Governors, who have long wielded control over the allocation of funds meant for grassroots development. For years, Local Governments have struggled to function effectively as Governors withhold their Federal allocations, releasing funds only sporadically and in insufficient amounts.
Just as the Apex Court clarified the laws governing Local Government autonomy, it will also be called upon to interpret the provisions of the Corporate Affairs Commission Act regarding the dissolution of registered Boards of Trustees. While the legal process may be time-consuming, the court will definitely render a judgement in accordance with the law.
Previous Presidents have attempted to address the issue of Local Government autonomy through discussions with the Governors Forum, but progress has been hindered by Governors who have misappropriated Local Government funds for personal gain. Similarly, efforts to resolve internal disputes within the Church have been thwarted by a few influential members, undermining the collective interests of the Church.
The Supreme Court’s ruling in the year 2000 regarding the case between the Late Rev AA Bada and Late Rev Owodunni continues to hinder the development and growth of the Church’s administration. Both the Ilaro State High Court and the Lagos State High Court have upheld the decision from year 2000 judgement, declaring the Pastor’s seat vacant.
It is imperative that we, as Christians and members of Celestial Church should come together to resolve our differences in a genuine manner. Allowing the courts to dictate the outcome will only perpetuate the negative impact on our Church and future generations will not forget our failure to unite.
