LG Autonomy: Governors Will Still Control Council Chairmen – Fayose
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| Ayodele Fayose |
Former Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State has stated that no one can become a local government chairman without the support of the state governor.
Fayose made this comment in response to the Supreme Court ruling that granted financial autonomy to local governments.
The former governor emphasized that despite the ruling, state governors and state Houses of Assembly would continue to control local government affairs, including finances.
He shared these views during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
Last Thursday, the Supreme Court ruled that federal allocations meant for local governments should be paid directly into their accounts.
Justice Emmanuel Agim also prohibited governors from receiving, tampering with, or withholding funds intended for local governments.
The court further barred governors from dissolving democratically elected local government officials, deeming such actions a violation of the 1999 Constitution.
Fayose remarked: “I am not a lawyer. I am a politician and, by God’s grace, an elder statesman.
“While I believe no government should take local government funds, let me be clear: you cannot separate the baby from the mother.
“No one can become a council chairman without a governor’s backing. Anyone who says otherwise is wasting their time.
“Let me remind you that the state House of Assembly oversees and regulates local government activities.
“When I was governor, I received funds from Abuja. These funds were managed by certain individuals, not politicians or council chairmen.
“Any council chairman who thinks they can disrespect their governor because they receive funds directly will be corrected by the House of Assembly.
“You cannot become a council chairman without the governor’s support. The House of Assembly regulates your activities.”
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