LG Chairmen Assure On Grassroots Devt, Laud Tinubu, Judiciary On Autonomy

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) ended its 48th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Lafia, Nasarawa State, at the weekend with a promise to ensure the much-needed development at the grassroots.

It said the recent Supreme Court Judgement granting autonomy to local government areas in the country was a call to service on the part of elected chairmen.

In a communique issued at the end of its meeting yesterday, the NEC said the only way to reciprocate the gesture was by providing the dividends of democracy to the people.

They commended President Bola Tinubu for initiating the process leading to the granting of autonomy to local governments.

The council equally hailed the judiciary for its unanimity in arriving at the unprecedented outcome at the Supreme Court.

“NEC expresses its gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the executive governors across the states, members of the judiciary, National Assembly, attorney general of the federation and minister of justice, critical stakeholders, media, civil society and the entire leadership of our local communities, the general public for this historic Supreme Court Judgment which granted autonomy to the local governments,” it stated.

It tasked local government executives to work towards promoting harmonious relationship with all tiers and arms of government in line with global best practices as exemplified by the United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG).

NEC agreed that the outstanding membership dues and subscriptions owed by many state chapters are to be deducted through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning to fund the critical financial activities of the National Secretariat.

“The NEC appreciates all the private concerns, institutions, and corporate bodies that made valid presentations at the Council meeting on the development of Local Governments; and pledges to collaborate in the interest of the larger populace of the grassroots.

“The NEC thanks all Nigerians especially within the local communities for their resilience, trust, hope, and prayers, and promise not to take their support for granted by intensifying efforts to offer more responsive and responsible leadership,” the communique said.

It expressed gratitude to Governor Abdullahi Sule and the people of Nasarawa State for the warm hospitality accorded members during the  meeting.