- PRP warned that diverting funds back to state governments threatens local government financial autonomy and disrespects constitutional provisions.
- The party insisted local governments must receive allocations without interference to manage resources and address community development needs.
The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has raised concerns about the alleged efforts of state governors to persuade the President against allowing direct Federal allocations to Local Government Authorities (LGAs).
In a statement on Tuesday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Muhammed Ishaq, reaffirmed PRP’s dedication to ensuring fiscal independence as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and reinforced by the Supreme Court’s ruling on July 11, 2024.
He stated: “It is disheartening to observe that, despite the clear legal framework affirming the financial independence of Local Governments, some of our emperor State Governors are utilizing their influence to undermine this critical democratic process.”
“The Supreme Court’s decision to mandate that federal allocations be directed to the accounts of democratically elected local government councils was aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and the effective use of funds at the grassroots level.”
“It is also meant to stop the blatant abuse of local government funds by state governments in the much abused joint accounts of states and local governments.”
“Any attempts to divert these funds back to state governments jeopardise the very essence of local government financial autonomy and reflect a disregard for constitutional mandates.”
The PRP further stressed that funds allocated for local governments must be sent directly without interference, ensuring LGAs have full control over their resources to serve their communities.
The party also maintained that it strongly supports local government authorities against any moves to use their funds to settle debts that lack the proper consent of the councils.
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