Onuigbo Calls for Local Government Funding Accountability

Sam Onuigbo, a former member of the House of Representatives and President of the Global Legislators Organisation for a Balanced Environment International, called for accountability from state governors concerning the increased revenues from the Federation Account following the removal of the petrol subsidy. He accused some governors of withholding necessary funds from local governments, which are essential for grassroots development.

In an interview, Onuigbo noted that while President Bola Tinubu's reforms have significantly increased state allocations, these benefits have not sufficiently reached local communities. He cited Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule, who reported an increase in monthly allocations from N3.8 billion to N16 billion, and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who mentioned a rise in total allocations from N784 billion to between N1.8 trillion and N2.6 trillion.

Onuigbo praised Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for ensuring local councils received their full federal allocations, while criticizing the use of Joint Account Committees that limit local government funding.