President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern warning to Nigeria’s state governors regarding local government funding. Speaking on Friday, the President stated he may issue an Executive Order to enforce direct financial allocations if governors continue to ignore the Supreme Court’s recent ruling.
The President delivered this message during the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja. He emphasized that the era of state governments withholding funds meant for local councils must end.
“I Have the Knife and the Yam”
President Tinubu used a traditional metaphor to illustrate his authority over the federation’s finances. He signaled that while he prefers cooperation, he is prepared to act decisively to ensure the law is followed.
Addressing the gathered governors and party leaders, Tinubu said:
“The Supreme Court has capped it for you again, saying, ‘give them their money directly.’ If you wait for my Executive Order, because I have the knife, I have the yam, I will cut it.”
The President added that he has been “respectful and understanding” with the governors so far. However, he warned that he would begin implementing federal interventions if he does not see immediate changes in how funds are distributed.
Background: The Landmark Supreme Court Ruling
This warning follows a significant legal victory for the Federal Government on July 11, 2024. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that state governments cannot constitutionally manage or retain funds meant for local councils.
Key points from the ruling include:
- Direct Payments: Allocations from the Federation Account must go straight to local governments.
- Unconstitutional Interference: The court declared that “joint accounts” used by states to manage local funds are being improperly handled.
- Constitutional Compliance: The ruling reinforces Section 162 of the 1999 Constitution, which protects the third tier of government.
A Call for Immediate Compliance
President Tinubu reiterated that his administration is committed to the rule of law. He urged governors to respect the apex court’s decision without further delay. He noted that the ultimate goal of the Federal Government is to ensure that the local government system functions independently and effectively.
Consequently, any further violations of these financial protocols could trigger a direct federal intervention through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).
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