By CHUKWUMA OFILI
Governor Chukwuma Soludo Defends Law Amid Accusations of Undermining Local Government Autonomy
Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s recent signing of the Anambra Local Government Administration Law 2024 has ignited a wave of criticism from various civil society groups and opposition members. The governor justified the law by stating that granting absolute autonomy to the 774 local government areas would lead to “humongous chaos” and hinder sustainable development.
Details of the New Law
During a press briefing at the Governor’s Lodge in Awka, Soludo emphasized that the law was necessary to maintain order and transparency in local governance. He argued that the Supreme Court’s judgment did not nullify Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers state governments to enact laws governing local government operations.
The Anambra State House of Assembly passed the bill during its plenary session last Tuesday, and Soludo stated that the new legislation aims to enhance consistency and collaboration among various tiers of government.
Criticism from Opposition and Civil Society
The signing of the law has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from members of the Labour Party and civil rights organizations. Chief Damian Ugoh, a member of the Labour Party, condemned the law, asserting that it contradicts the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy. He claimed that the legislation seeks to coerce local government chairmen into remitting their federal allocations back to the state government.
Dr. Ralph Uche, Executive Director of the Civil Rights and Liberty Organisation, labeled the new law as “anti-people,” arguing that it undermines funds intended for grassroots development. Uche expressed concerns that the bill would compel local governments to deposit portions of their federal allocations into a consolidated account controlled by the state.
Governor Soludo’s Defense
In response to the backlash, Governor Soludo defended the legislation as a necessary measure to ensure effective governance. He described the laws as consequential, asserting that they operationalize the Supreme Court judgment rather than undermine it. “The debate regarding local governments’ status within the federal constitution is still unsettled,” he stated.
Soludo emphasized the importance of structured collaboration among government tiers, arguing that no level of government can function independently. He pointed out that many local governments could face financial difficulties without state support, potentially requiring bailouts.
Implications for Local Governance
The governor reiterated that the new laws are designed to protect local governments from financial collapse and ensure that workers and retirees receive their salaries and benefits. He dismissed allegations that governors had coerced local government chairmen into signing oaths regarding fund transfers, insisting that such claims are unfounded.
Soludo concluded by highlighting the need for oversight in local government spending to prevent chaos and ensure accountability. He stated, “The essence of these laws is to promote cohesive functioning among state and local governments, ensuring that resources are managed effectively for sustainable development.”
Conclusion
The signing of the Anambra Local Government Administration Law 2024 has sparked a significant debate about the balance of power between state and local governments in Nigeria. As criticisms mount, the governor’s defense of the legislation underscores the complexities of governance and the ongoing struggle for local government autonomy in the country. The implications of this law will likely continue to unfold as stakeholders respond and adapt to the new legal framework.
-
-
-
-
