Federal Government’s Push For Local Government Autonomy Earns Applause From Onjeh

Federal Government’s Push For Local Government Autonomy Earns Applause From Onjeh

Championing the cause of local governance autonomy, Comrade Daniel Onjeh, the Chieftain of the APC and the party’s 2023 Senatorial Candidate for Benue South, has reiterated his unwavering support for the Federal Government’s renewed push towards granting full financial and administrative autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local governments. Onjeh, a longstanding advocate for local government autonomy, emphasized that this measure is pivotal for fostering grassroots development and effectively addressing the nation’s pressing security challenges………..CONTINUE READING

In a press release issued today, Onjeh responded to the recent lawsuit filed by the Federal Government against the governors of the 36 states at the Supreme Court, underscoring the significance of local government autonomy in national discourse. He emphasized that achieving autonomy for local governments would empower grassroots communities to actively participate in governance, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and accountability.

Onjeh lauded the Ninth Senate for its diligent efforts in passing the LG Autonomy Bill. However, he lamented that the bill was thwarted in the past by state governors who failed to secure the required consent of two-thirds of the State Houses of Assembly as mandated by the constitution.

Calling upon the ordinary citizens of Nigeria to mobilize support for local government autonomy, Onjeh urged for a collective effort in advocating for the passage of the bill, even if it necessitates protesting against state legislatures reluctant to act.

He emphasized that addressing Nigeria’s developmental challenges hinges significantly on reforming the dysfunctional local government administration. Onjeh criticized the existence of Joint State/LG Accounts as unconstitutional, asserting that it has facilitated corruption and misappropriation of funds by some state governors at the expense of grassroots development.

By advocating for the abolishment of Joint State/LG Accounts and the grant of full autonomy to local governments, Onjeh aims to restore fiscal discipline and empower local authorities to effectively utilize funds for meaningful development initiatives. He contends that this move is imperative for advancing Nigeria’s developmental agenda and fostering inclusive growth across the nation

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