Nasarawa State government has said the recent Supreme Court judgement granting full autonomy to the local government areas in the country aligned with its commitment to uphold the principles of democracy, transparency and good governance at all levels of government.
It said granting autonomy to local governments would enhance the democratic set-up at the grassroots level, empowering local authorities to make decisions that directly impact the lives of the people they serve.
In a statement signed by the attorney-general and commissioner for justice, Barrister Labaran Shuaibu Magaji, the state government said the decision reinforced the principles of federalism and strengthened the foundation of the country’s democratic system.
“This judgment marks a significant milestone in the evolution of our democracy and the protection of local government funds from undue interference.
“Under the visionary and transparent leadership of Engr. Abdullahi Sule, Nasarawa State welcomes this decision as it aligns with our commitment to uphold the principles of democracy, transparency, and good governance at all levels of government.
“The democratic set-up at the local government level as well as the non-tampering with local government fund, which characterised our government will ensure that resources meant for grassroots development are utilized for the benefit of our people,” it stated.
It said it is fully committed to supporting and implementing the judgment to ensure that its councils operate independently, transparently, and accountably.
“We believe that this autonomy will lead to greater efficiency, improved service delivery, and increased development at the grassroots level,” it added.
It called on all relevant stakeholders, including local government officials, civil society organizations, and the general public, to support this judgment and work together to harness its positive effects for the benefit of our communities.