Former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Atiku Abubakar, has pledged to uphold the financial autonomy of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas if elected president.
Atiku said his administration would ensure that funds allocated to local governments from the Federation Account are transferred directly into the councils’ accounts, rather than being routed through state governments.
His position was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by his spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo.
The former vice-president referenced the Supreme Court’s July 11, 2024, judgment affirming the financial autonomy of local governments and directing that funds meant for the councils should be paid directly to them.
The ruling followed a suit filed by the Federal Government against the 36 state governors over the control, administration and funding of local government councils.
