Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has asserted that he has not utilized any funds allocated for local governments since taking office. Eno made this statement while addressing the Supreme Court’s recent verdict granting financial autonomy to local governments across the nation.
In his remarks to the Government House Press Corps at Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, upon returning from an official engagement, Governor Eno described the Supreme Court’s judgment as a positive development and a relief for state governments. He emphasized that the ruling would not affect his administration, as he has not interfered with the funds allocated to the 31 local governments in Akwa Ibom.
Governor Eno, however, expressed concerns about the effective implementation of financial autonomy by local government leaders. He questioned how local governments would manage responsibilities such as the prompt payment of salaries and other emoluments to their employees under the new arrangement.
“The Supreme Court has made its pronouncements, and that’s the final court of the land. For us in Akwa Ibom, I don’t foresee any issues arising from this. This is a welcome development because I know how much we, as a state, support the local governments. It is a relief to state governments. Since I assumed office, I’ve not touched any funds allocated to the local governments,” Governor Eno stated.
He continued, “The only challenge I foresee now is ensuring the prompt payment of local government workers and primary school teachers. How do we clear the backlog that we have? I pray that we find a way around this.”
The Supreme Court’s judgment, which grants financial independence to local governments, has sparked discussions on its implications and the necessary steps for effective implementation at the local level.
