The Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has expressed strong support for the Federal Government’s initiative to secure full autonomy for Local Government Councils (LGCs) by removing them from the control of State Governments, in alignment with constitutional provisions.
In a statement by Maryam Umar Yusuf, Head of Information and Public Relations for RMAFC, on behalf of Mr. Mohammed Shehu, it was emphasized that LGCs, as the third tier of government operating at the grassroots level, should function independently from State and Federal Governments to ensure effective local governance.
Mr. Shehu highlighted that the Nigerian Constitution recognizes federal, state, and local governments as the three tiers of governance, each entitled to draw funds from the Federation Account as stipulated by the Constitution.
He criticized the current dominance of State Governments over LGCs, noting that this interference undermines their political, administrative, and fiscal autonomy, resulting in poor service delivery in infrastructure and social services at the grassroots level.
Mr. Shehu also pointed out that the political control exerted by State Governments over LGCs prevents local communities from electing their leaders, thereby hindering true democratic representation at the level of government closest to the people.
The statement further conveyed the Commission’s belief that granting full autonomy to LGCs would reduce poverty, curb rural-urban migration, and deliver greater democratic dividends to the populace. It would also attract more qualified candidates for council elections, enhancing governance across all levels.
“Full autonomy will promote good governance, transparency, and accountability at the local level,” Mr. Shehu added. “By directing funds intended for local governments towards rural development, security challenges such as banditry, kidnappings, terrorism, and electoral violence will be significantly minimized.”
He concluded by stating that this autonomy would boost agricultural productivity, increase income generation, reduce rural-urban migration, create wealth, and generally improve the socio-economic conditions of rural communities.
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