APC Local Government Chairmen Support Autonomy Compliance

The Forum of Local Government Chairmen in the All Progressives Congress (APC) clarified that governors within the party do not oppose the enforcement of the Supreme Court's judgment on local government autonomy. Dr Mustafa Jibril Alheri, Chairman of the Progressives Local Government Chairmen Forum and Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government Council in Niger State, made this statement while addressing journalists in Abuja.

The Supreme Court's ruling in July 2024 affirmed the financial autonomy of Nigeria's 774 local governments, stating that it is unconstitutional for governors to withhold funds allocated to Local Government Areas (LGAs). Despite some states' delays in compliance, Alheri noted that many APC-controlled states are gradually implementing the judgment.

He expressed confidence in the support from governors, particularly highlighting Farmer Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State as a strong advocate for local government autonomy. Alheri stated that the APC, under President Bola Tinubu's leadership, is committed to achieving full autonomy for local governments.