By Mercy Aikoye
The Labour Party Caucus in the National Assembly has condemned Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo’s proposed bill to establish a joint State and Local Government account, contravening the Supreme Court’s ruling on Local Government financial autonomy.
Senator Tony Nwoye, leading the Caucus, expressed disappointment during a press briefing in Abuja, urging the Speaker and members of Anambra State House of Assembly to reject the bill.
The proposed bill, titled “Anambra State Local Government Administration Law, 2024,” undermines the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment and the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Specifically, Clauses 13, 14, and 17 are contentious.
Clause 13 stipulates that the State will maintain a joint account for Local Governments, while Clause 14 establishes a Local Government Consolidated Account. The Caucus argues these provisions violate the Supreme Court’s ruling.
The Supreme Court, in its judgment (Sc/343/2024), ruled that funds due to Local Governments must be paid directly into their accounts, not through a joint State and Local Government account.
Senator Nwoye questioned the rationale behind the proposed 20% deduction from Federal Allocation to Local Governments, citing growing insecurity concerns in the State.
The Caucus emphasized that the proposed law would financially strangle Local Governments and deprive them of their autonomy, contrary to the Supreme Court’s judgment.
Minority Deputy Whip, Hon. George Ozodinobi, urged Governor Soludo to withdraw the bill, highlighting sections 17(1) and 17(3) as particularly objectionable.
Leader of the Labour Party Caucus in the House of Representatives, Hon. Victor Ogene, cautioned Anambra State House of Assembly members to consider the judgment of history and the consequences of supporting an obnoxious law.
The Caucus called on Governor Soludo and the Anambra State House of Assembly to respect the Supreme Court’s ruling and prioritize the interests of all citizens, rather than privileged individuals.
