Photo Credit: The Punch
2025-12-23 09:00:00
Reporting by The Punch indicates local government stakeholders are intensifying calls for direct disbursement of council allocations, arguing that state-level handling of the funds weakens grassroots service delivery.
The push is framed as a continuation of the post–Supreme Court autonomy debate—demanding that councils receive money straight from the federation account rather than through state intermediaries.
Supporters say direct access will improve accountability and ensure funds go to primary healthcare, rural roads, sanitation, and local economic activity instead of being diluted by state politics.
State governments, however, have historically resisted reforms that reduce their control over local funding structures, meaning enforcement mechanisms—not just court rulings—remain the key battleground.
Validation: Daily Times recalls the Supreme Court position, stating it is “unconstitutional for state governments to retain or manage funds meant for local councils.” Meanwhile, ABN TV repeats the core claim: “state governments received control over at least N7.43tn meant for local government councils…”
Echotitbits take: Nigeria’s local governance problem isn’t only “how much money,” but “who controls it.” Watch for enforcement: executive orders, FAAC remittance redesign, and whether states respond with political workarounds.
Source: The Punch — December 23, 2025 (https://punchng.com/autonomy-battle-lgs-demand-direct-funds-as-states-receive-n7-43tn/)
The Punch 2025-12-23
