Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has emphasized the constitutional equality of states and the federal government in executing their respective roles, following a recent Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to local government areas nationwide.
Addressing stakeholders in Ibadan during an emergency consultative meeting on Monday, Makinde expressed concerns over potential challenges arising from the Supreme Court’s decision, describing it as creating a constitutional gap at the local government level.
While supporting transparency in local councils, Governor Makinde cautioned that the Supreme Court ruling alone would not solve Nigeria’s broader challenges. He highlighted the need for proactive measures to align the judgment with the Nigerian Constitution, emphasizing the state’s responsibility to find indigenous solutions that ensure transparency and protect citizens from suffering.
“I convened this meeting because, although we haven’t seen the Certified True Copy of the Supreme Court judgment, it’s imperative to discuss its implications for local government financial autonomy,” Governor Makinde stated.
“There appears to be a conflict between the judgment and the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, which we are bound to uphold.”
Asserting Oyo State’s ability to manage its affairs effectively, Makinde noted his administration’s efforts in clearing salary arrears, addressing pension and infrastructure deficits in primary healthcare centers and inner roads. He underscored ongoing challenges, including substantial pension and gratuity arrears at the local government level amounting to about N55 billion.
“We’ve made significant strides by paying off salary arrears and investing heavily in healthcare, education, and infrastructure,” Governor Makinde added.
“Our focus remains on developing sustainable infrastructure to boost the economy and improve the living standards of our people.”
He concluded by affirming Oyo State’s commitment to navigating these challenges effectively and independently, underscoring the state’s constitutional mandate to govern and address local issues in collaboration with local government authorities.
