By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi 

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has granted financial autonomy to the 774 local governments in the country.

In a landmark ruling, the apex court declared it illegal and unconstitutional for governors to withhold and seize funds allocated to local government areas (LGAs) in their states.

The court held that this practice, which has continued for over two decades, violates Section 162 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

Justice Emmanuel Agim, who delivered the lead judgment, stated that no state House of Assembly has the power to make laws that interfere with funds meant for LGAs.

The court ordered that funds meant for LGAs must be paid directly to them from the federation account, effective immediately.

The court also declared the appointment of caretaker committees by governors to run LGAs unconstitutional, emphasizing that states must ensure democratic governance at the local level.

The judgment follows a suit filed by the Federal Government to secure financial autonomy for LGAs.

This ruling is a significant step towards empowering local governments and promoting grassroots development in Nigeria.