NLC Urges FG To Act On Local Government Fund Allocations

NLC Calls for Direct Allocation of Funds to Local Governments

Let me tell you something important that just happened. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is making a strong push for the Federal Government to make sure local government allocations are handled directly, just like the Supreme Court said they should be. This isn’t a suggestion; it’s a demand rooted in law. And it’s not just about money—it’s about fairness and accountability.

At the 8th National Administrative Council meeting of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Abuja, NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero laid it out clearly. He spoke directly to both the federal government and state governors, urging them not to let politics get in the way of implementing this important judgment. The judgment says that local governments need to open accounts with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) so they can receive their funds directly, without interference.

Ajaero Stands Firm on Local Government Autonomy

Now, here’s the deal: Ajaero didn’t just stop there. He made it crystal clear that the NLC is fully behind NULGE in their fight for full autonomy. What does that mean? It means local governments should be able to operate independently, without being swayed by political influences. He emphasized that the release of funds shouldn’t depend on who’s in favor or who’s not. It’s simple: the money should flow as it’s supposed to, period.

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“We’ve achieved autonomy now,” Ajaero said, “and I’m pleading with the federal government not to play politics with this autonomy. The release of funds to local governments should not be left to the whims and fancies of the government.” That’s a powerful statement, and it sends a clear message: no more games, no more delays.

Supreme Court Ruling: A Legal Mandate

Let’s talk about the legal side of things for a moment. Ajaero pointed out that the Supreme Court ruling isn’t something optional—it’s the law. It’s not like a favor someone does for you. It’s not about liking or disliking someone. Once the highest court in the land makes a ruling, it’s final. And guess what? Even the president agrees with it. So why are we still seeing delays? It doesn’t make sense, and Ajaero called that out loud and clear.

He said, “It’s a position of law. It’s not if you like me, you send me money. If you don’t like me, you won’t send me money. The judicial arm of government, the highest court in the land, gave that ruling. They’re not doing anybody any favors anymore. And even the president agrees with it. So I don’t understand their sense of delays any longer.”

NLC’s Commitment to Upholding the Law

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Ajaero assured everyone that the NLC, along with NULGE and other trade unions, won’t sit back and watch if anyone tries to violate the Supreme Court ruling. They’re ready to take action, no matter the level of government. This isn’t about asking nicely anymore—it’s about enforcing the law.

“So the NLC, NULGE, and all trade union movements in Nigeria will work with all of you to ensure that we fight any infraction at any unit, whether it’s a council or a state. Our struggle has been highlighted in such a way that it’s no longer about telling them to obey the law. It’s not about agitation anymore,” Ajaero declared.

And here’s the kicker: “This is another way of enforcing the law, which was voluntarily entered into. We are not at the mercy of any governor, we are not at the mercy of any President, and we are not at the mercy of any minister.” That’s a bold statement, and it shows just how serious the NLC is about this issue.

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Recognizing Past Leaders and Looking Forward

Ajaero also took a moment to recognize the hard work of past NULGE leaders. These individuals have done so much for the union, ensuring its progress and smooth democratic transitions. He praised their dedication and urged the newly elected leadership to continue building on the strong foundation they’ve laid.

“We need to keep pushing forward,” Ajaero encouraged. “The fight for local government autonomy is far from over, and it’s up to all of us to ensure that this movement continues to gain momentum. Let’s honor the legacy of those who came before us by staying committed to the cause.”

In the end, it’s about standing up for what’s right and ensuring that local governments receive the funds they’re entitled to. The NLC and NULGE are ready to do just that, and they’re not backing down anytime soon.