Public policy expert and former Director General, Nigerian Maritime and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Ade Dosunmu has hailed the decision of the Supreme Court of Nigeria on the matter of autonomy of the Local Governments administrations brought before it by the office of the Attorney General of the Federation calling it a landmark judgement that is long overdue, but timely.
In a statement sent to The Nigerian Economy, Dosunmu however charged Nigerians to hold local government administrations of their various areas accountable to ensure that they do not misappropriate federal fund allocations given to them, noting that this would ensure a faster development.
He said: “The importance of this decision at this time in our history cannot be over emphasised as it will no doubt guarantee the delivery of dividends of democracy to the grassroot as represented by the 774 Local Governments.
“We now have a well structured federal system that guarantees the independence of each tier of government like it is obtainable in other federal jurisdictions all over the world. State governors are advised to take it in good faith and see this as a sacrifice they need to make for the advancement of our democracy.”
To the Local Government chairmen, the ex-NIMASA boss admonished them to see their freedom from the state governors as a call for accountability and more dedication to duty, because to whom much is given, much is expected.
“My advise to Nigerians who live in the 774 local governments is to get involved and demand for accountability from their local government chairmen. There must be robust civic engagement by the residents of the local governments on how funds allocated are utilized and monitor how projects are implemented,” he stated.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for the audacious initiative leading to the historic judgement that has opened new vistas of opportunities for Nigerians as the country consolidate her democratic journey.
