Your Contributions Have Strengthened Our Democracy, Group Commends AGF, Lateef Fagbemi Over LG Autonomy – Rights Monitors

Ads

The Center For Policy Intervention in Africa, CEPIA in a recent open letter addressed to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has commended his efforts and achievement of Local Government financial autonomy in Nigeria. In the letter signed by CEPIA Director General, Dr. Yinusa Ganiyu, the group positioned that the exceptional leadership and outstanding service of the attorney general to Nigeria is commendable. Moreso, his contributions has significantly strengthened democracy in Nigeria and will have a lasting positive impact on the lives of countless Nigerians.”The Centre for Policy Intervention in Africa (CEPIA) wishes to extend our heartfelt commendation for your exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication in effectively and professionally coordinating the legal battle for Local Government Financial Autonomy. The landmark victory at the Supreme Court on July 11, 2024, stands as a testament to your legal prowess, strategic foresight, and steadfast commitment to the rule of law and democratic principles.”The high legal acumen and sound professionalism you demonstrated throughout this challenging legal battle are exemplary. Your strategic and peaceful restructuring initiatives, conducted within the ambit of democratic ethos and the rule of law, have set a new benchmark for legal excellence and governance in Nigeria.”This historic victory is a clear manifestation of the impartiality and integrity of our judiciary and its institutions. It underscores the vital role of an independent judicial system in upholding justice and protecting the rights of all citizens. Moreover, this triumph is a testament to the genuineness and reality of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting the administration’s commitment to meaningful reform and national progress.”The Supreme Court’s ruling brings about significant and transformative changes to the governance structure of our nation:- Empowerment of Local Governance: State Governors will no longer have the authority to dissolve democratically elected Local Government officials, ensuring robust and representative local governance.- Stability and Continuity: The abolition of caretaker committees nationwide will foster stability and continuity in local administration, promoting a more effective and accountable governance framework.- Direct Federal Allocations: Federal allocations will now be sent directly to Local Governments, bypassing state governments. This direct funding will enhance the financial autonomy of Local Governments, ensuring resources are utilized effectively for local development.- Prevention of Fund Diversion: States will no longer have access to funds meant for Local Government areas, ensuring that these resources are used for their intended purposes.- Dividends of Democracy: The tangible benefits of democracy will become more apparent to the real voters, as local governance becomes more responsive and accountable to grassroots needs.- Grassroots Representation: The election of true representatives of the people will be more effectively controlled at the grassroots level, promoting greater participation and trust in the democratic process.”Your outstanding efforts have paved the way for a more transparent, accountable, and democratic system of local governance in Nigeria. The positive impacts of this victory will be felt by millions of Nigerians who depend on local governments for essential services and development”.Once again, we commend you for your exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and outstanding service to our nation. Your contributions have significantly strengthened our democracy and will have a lasting positive impact on the lives of countless Nigerians.

Ads