FG’s Withholding Of LG Funds Against Principle Of Federalism – Ojo

Barrister Olalekan Festus Ojo, Osun State-born hu­man rights lawyer, has said that the withhold­ing of local government funds by the Federal Government rais­es profound constitutional and governance issues that go beyond Osun State.

Reacting to the withholding of the Osun State local govern­ments’ funds by the Federal Government, Barrister Ojo, who spoke exclusively to Sun­day Independent, stressed that under the 1999 Constitution (as amended), local governments are recognised as the third tier of government.

He stated that local govern­ments are meant to enjoy finan­cial autonomy to discharge their statutory responsibilities to the grassroots.

Ojo, Managing Partner, Plat­inum & Taylor Hill LP, main­tained that when such funds are withheld, it not only undermines the principle of federalism, but also deprives citizens at the local level of essential services such as primary healthcare, basic educa­tion, and rural development.

He stressed: “From a legal standpoint, the action of the Osun State government in ap­proaching the Supreme Court is both necessary and commend­able.

“It is only through judicial in­terpretation that the grey areas in our constitutional framework regarding local government au­tonomy can be clarified.

“The Supreme Court, as the fi­nal arbiter, has the responsibility to determine whether the Federal Government has acted within or outside its constitutional powers in this matter.

“Whatever decision it reach­es will have far-reaching impli­cations for fiscal federalism and democratic governance across Nigeria.

“That said, I believe the mat­ter should not be viewed purely as a political tussle. At its core, it is about accountability, equity, and service delivery to the peo­ple.

“My expectation is that the suit will not only address the immediate grievance of Osun State, but also set a precedent that strengthens the financial independence of local govern­ments nationwide.

“Ultimately, governance must return to the people at the grass­roots, and that is only possible when the funds meant for them are released and properly man­aged.”

COURTESY: Independent