Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Lead Counsel to President Bola Tinubu, Chief Babatunde Ogala, has stated that the Supreme Court’s ruling on financial autonomy for local governments marks a new chapter in grassroots democracy in Nigeria.
Speaking during the Renewed Hope Global Virtual Town Hall Conference over the weekend, Ogala stated that while the Constitution had always provided for the independence of Nigeria’s 774 local governments, ambiguities in its interpretation had allowed some state governments to stifle development at the grassroots level.
“The Supreme Court, in its ruling of February 28, 2025, cleared all doubts. It stated in unequivocal terms that local governments are to receive their funds directly, not through state governments,” Ogala said.
He emphasised that this judicial clarification will not only free up much-needed resources for local councils but also restore accountability in local governance.
“Grassroots politics will be strengthened. People will begin to see development where it matters most at the community level,” he added.
Ogala further encouraged state governments to go beyond federal allocations and contribute from their own internally generated revenue to support local councils.
The legal luminary noted that financial autonomy for LGAs is essential to the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda, as it promotes transparency, boosts local development, and curbs the over-centralisation of power.
The Renewed Hope Global Virtual Town Hall Conference, chaired by Ambassador J.K. Adebola, continues to serve as a weekly civic engagement platform connecting Nigerian citizens worldwide with top government officials and policy influencers.
*©️ Renewed Hope Global Virtual Town Hall Conference*
