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
