Soludo sparks controversy with signing of Anambra’s LG law

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has sparked controversy after signing the Anambra Local Government Administration Law 2024, which critics argue undermines the autonomy of local governments.

Soludo defended the law, stating that absolute autonomy for the 774 local government areas would lead to “humongous chaos” and hinder sustainable development.

At a press briefing before signing the law on Tuesday, Soludo argued that the Supreme Court judgment did not nullify Section 7 of the 1999 constitution, which empowers state governments to enact laws for local government administration.

He emphasized that the new laws aim to achieve consistency, transparency, and collaboration among tiers of government.

However, opposition groups and civil society organizations have condemned the law, viewing it as an attempt by the governor to control local government funds.

Chief Damian Ugoh of the Labour Party stated, “Signing of the LG (law) is against the Supreme Court judgment… The bill seeks to arm-twist chairmen to send back local government allocation to the state coffers.”

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On his part, Dr. Ralph Uche of the Civil Rights and Liberty Organisation described the law as “anti-people,” designed to deny local governments funds for grassroots development.

Key Concerns:

– Autonomy: Critics argue that the law undermines local government autonomy, contrary to the Supreme Court judgment.

– Funding: Opposition groups claim the law allows the state to control local government funds, potentially hindering development.

– Accountability: Soludo argues that the law ensures accountability and coordination among tiers of government.

Governor Soludo’s Response:

“The debate on local government autonomy is ongoing… The new laws give operational life to the Supreme Court judgment, not undermining it. No tier of government enjoys absolute autonomy; collaboration is crucial for sustainable development.”

Soludo denied allegations that governors forced local government chairmen to sign a secret oath to transfer funds to the state, saying, “Governors are often accused of seeking to ‘control’ LG funds… I often ask: control for what?”

The controversy surrounding the Anambra Local Government Administration Law 2024 highlights the ongoing debate on local government autonomy and the balance of power between state and local governments in Nigeria.

Key Provisions Of The Law

1. State Control: The law grants the state government significant control over local government funds, potentially undermining autonomy.
2. Consolidated Account: Local governments are required to remit a portion of their federal allocations into a consolidated account controlled by the state.
3. Collaboration: The law emphasizes collaboration among tiers of government, ensuring coordination and accountability.
4. Oversight: The state government is empowered to exercise oversight functions on local government spending.
5. Financial Management: The law regulates financial management practices in local governments.

The post Soludo sparks controversy with signing of Anambra’s LG law appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from Ripples Nigeria.

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