President Bola Tinubu has directed the governors of the 36 states to release local government allocations directly to the councils, in line with the Supreme Court’s judgment.
The President stressed that genuine local government autonomy cannot exist without proper funding, noting that councils must receive their allocations directly to function effectively.
Speaking at the 14th APC National Caucus meeting held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, on Thursday, December 18, Tinubu also disclosed that he had assured the United States and the European Union of Nigeria’s commitment to establishing state police as part of efforts to address the country’s security challenges.
He urged governors and party leaders to remain flexible, tolerant, and actively involved in developments within their states, including rural communities and local government areas.
“You must continue to promote tolerance and flexibility and stay involved in what is happening in your states, down to the local government level,” he said.
The President revealed that during extensive discussions with U.S. and European leaders, he expressed confidence that Nigeria would pass legislation for state police to strengthen security. “They asked if I was confident, and I said yes. I have a party I can rely on to make it happen,” he added.
Tinubu further called on party leaders to carefully consider the implications of the recent Supreme Court ruling, stressing the need to position both the country and the party appropriately.
According to him, local government autonomy must be meaningful and fully implemented. “There is no autonomy without a funded mandate. We will give them their money directly. That is compliance with the Supreme Court judgment. Leadership must be taken seriously,” he said.
