President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on state governors to comply fully with the Supreme Court ruling that permits local governments to receive their statutory allocations directly from the Federation Account without state interference.
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Tinubu issued the warning while addressing members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the party’s 15th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja.
The President warned that any attempt by governors to undermine or ignore the judgment would compel the Federal Government to take decisive action, including enforcing a legal framework that would allow direct disbursement of funds to local councils.
According to him, the apex court has already settled the matter, directing states to immediately stop withholding funds meant for local governments. He emphasized that the ruling leaves no room for ambiguity and must be obeyed by all levels of government.
The President noted that although he holds state governors in high regard, respect for the rule of law remains non-negotiable. He said any action that violates the Constitution or disrespects judicial authority would not be tolerated.
The Supreme Court, in a landmark judgment delivered on July 11, 2024, declared the practice of state governments controlling or withholding local government allocations unconstitutional, affirming the financial autonomy of local councils across the country.
