Oyo State Council Chairmen Withdraw from ALGON Over Supreme Court Ruling

The 33 council chairmen in Oyo State have announced their withdrawal from the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON). This decision follows the recent Supreme Court judgment that grants financial autonomy to local governments across the country. The chairmen, in a communique signed by all members, stated that their departure from ALGON is in response to the landmark ruling and is intended to align their operations more closely with the directives of the state government.

This significant move is seen as a response to the evolving legal landscape regarding local government administration in Nigeria. The Supreme Court’s judgment has been hailed as a victory for local government autonomy, allowing local councils greater control over their finances and operations. The council chairmen’s withdrawal from ALGON signals a shift in the political dynamics within Oyo State, emphasizing their commitment to the state’s governance under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde.

Unanimous Support for Governor Seyi Makinde

The council chairmen have expressed their unanimous support for Governor Seyi Makinde, highlighting his role in their decision to leave ALGON. In the communique, the chairmen praised Makinde for his exemplary leadership and numerous achievements since assuming office. They emphasized that their allegiance to him is unwavering, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy.

ALGON’s Public Relation Officer in Oyo State, Ibrahim Akintayo, described the chairmen’s stance as a show of solidarity with Governor Makinde. He noted that the chairmen’s decision reflects their appreciation for Makinde’s support of the Supreme Court ruling, which is seen as a progressive step towards enhancing local governance. The chairmen’s collective move to distance themselves from ALGON underscores their loyalty to the governor and their belief in his vision for the state’s development.

Implications for Local Government Administration in Oyo State

The council chairmen’s decision to withdraw from ALGON and support Governor Makinde has significant implications for local government administration in Oyo State. With financial autonomy now granted to local governments, the chairmen believe that aligning themselves with Makinde’s administration will facilitate more effective governance at the grassroots level. This move is expected to enhance the implementation of local projects and initiatives, ensuring that they are more in tune with the needs and priorities of the communities they serve.

Governor Makinde’s administration has been noted for its focus on transparency, accountability, and development, which the chairmen believe will be further strengthened with financial autonomy. By withdrawing from ALGON, the chairmen are signaling their readiness to embrace the new legal framework and work collaboratively with the state government to achieve shared goals. This development is poised to set a precedent for other states, potentially leading to a broader re-evaluation of the role and influence of ALGON in Nigeria’s local government landscape.

Reactions to Oyo State ALGON’s Withdrawal from Supreme Court Ruling on Local Government Autonomy

The decision of the Oyo State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) to withdraw from supporting the Supreme Court’s ruling granting full autonomy to local governments has sparked significant reactions on social media. Many users have taken to various platforms to express their opinions on the matter.

For instance, Lekan, using the handle X, argued that the Supreme Court’s decision is irreversible. He stated, “The law had spoken, no reversal. If they didn’t want FG will keep it until they reached the compliance of the Supreme Court judgement.” Another user, HRM, emphasized that ALGON was not a party to the suit at the Supreme Court, and therefore, their decision holds no weight against the Court’s ruling. HRM wrote, “As simple as ABC. They seem not to know that ALGON was not a party to the suit at Supreme Court. Supreme Court had made a pronouncement and that’s final on that topic.”

Similarly, DAG lamented about the overarching influence of governors in Nigeria, suggesting that they are the root of many governance issues. “Now you will clearly see how the governors are the problem of this nation. However, if you like form ten associations, it cannot change the court judgement on local government autonomy,” DAG noted. Another user, Omotola Adebanjo, expressed frustration, accusing Governor Makinde of doing everything in his power to keep the allocation from going to the Local Government.

Arguments in Support of Governor Makinde

Despite the backlash, some individuals have come out in support of Governor Seyi Makinde’s decision. Samuel Adeniyi justified the governor’s actions, explaining that the funds were initially provided to local governments but were mismanaged. “Go and read why he didn’t give them the funds anymore. When he became the governor, he was giving them funds but found they couldn’t account for the money. They are not in the boat alone, school principals and other agencies were there too,” Adeniyi stated.

Olamide Adewoju provided further clarity on the issue, distinguishing between state and local government allocations. He criticized the ALGON’s move, calling it a “Very mumucious move” and questioning how breaking away from an association affects what the law prescribes. “Will they now function and operate with a separate law different from the laws of the land? Isn’t it obvious now that Governor Seyi Makinde is so shaken due to his mismanagement of LGA funds all along… shameful!” Adewoju commented.

These diverse opinions highlight the ongoing debate about local government autonomy in Nigeria. While some believe in strict adherence to the Supreme Court’s ruling, others support Governor Makinde’s cautious approach to fund disbursement. This situation underscores the public’s desire for effective governance at the grassroots level, which is crucial for accelerating development that has long eluded the people. As the political drama continues to unfold, all eyes remain on the Oyo State government’s next steps