In a shocking display of disregard for the rule of law and democratic principles, the federal government and governors have conspired to suspend a Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to local governments. This egregious act is an affront to the very fabric of our democracy, undermining the constitutional provisions that guarantee the independence and self-governance of local authorities.
The Supreme Court’s judgment, a landmark decision that upheld the constitutional rights of local governments to manage their finances, has been callously set aside by the federal government and governors. This suspension is a clear violation of the principle of separation of powers, as the executive arm of government has unilaterally overridden the judiciary’s decision. Such actions have no place in a democratic society, where the rule of law and respect for constitutional provisions are sacrosanct.
By suspending the judgment, the federal government and governors have demonstrated a blatant disregard for the constitutional rights of local governments and the citizens they serve. This act is a naked power grab, aimed at maintaining a stranglehold on the finances of local authorities and perpetuating a system of fiscal dependency. It is an affront to the principles of federalism, which guarantees the autonomy and self-governance of subnational entities.
The implications of this suspension are far-reaching and devastating. Local governments, already hamstrung by inadequate funding and bureaucratic red tape, will be further crippled by this decision. Their ability to deliver essential services, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, will be severely impaired, leaving citizens to bear the brunt of this draconian measure.
Moreover, this suspension sets a dangerous precedent, undermining the integrity of the judiciary and the rule of law. If the executive arm of government can unilaterally override court judgments, what guarantee do citizens have that their rights will be protected? What confidence can we have in the ability of the judiciary to uphold the constitution and defend the rights of the marginalized?
We must condemn this brazen assault on democracy in the strongest possible terms. The federal government and governors must be held accountable for their actions, and the suspension of the Supreme Court judgment must be reversed immediately. We call on civil society organizations, human rights groups, and all well-meaning Nigerians to join us in this fight against tyranny and oppression.
Let us stand together in defense of democracy, the rule of law, and the constitutional rights of local governments. We will not stand idly by while our democracy is dismantled by those who seek to perpetuate their hold on power. The future of our country depends on our ability to resist this assault on our democratic values.
