The Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET) has lauded the recent landmark judgment by Supreme Court, affirming the direct payment of allocations to local governments and upholding their financial autonomy.
By Thompson Yamput
The Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET) has lauded the recent landmark judgment by Supreme Court, affirming the direct payment of allocations to local governments and upholding their financial autonomy.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that KONGONET represents the numerous civil society network groups in Kogi.
KONGONET’s Chairperson, Amb. Idris Muraina, commended the court in a statement in Lokoja on Saturday.
Muraina said that the apex court’s decision marked a significant step towards strengthening grassroots governance, and promoting transparency and accountability in local administration.
“In light of this crucial ruling, KONGONET calls upon the Kogi State Government to embrace this moment of opportunity and swiftly initiate the necessary mechanisms to conduct local government council elections in the state.
“It is imperative that the current local government transition committee be dissolved immediately, to pave the way for democratically elected chairmen to take charge and serve the interests of the local communities.
“Several esteemed civil society organisations in Kogi, including Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR), Initiative for Grassroot Advance (INGRA), and others, have voiced their support for the immediate implementation of the Supreme Court’s judgment.
“KONGONET stands united with these organisations in advocating for the timely and transparent transition to elected local government leadership,” he said.
The chairman congratulated Gov. Usman Ododo of Kogi, on the recent affirmation of his mandate by the Appellate Court as the validly elected governor of the state.
“We acknowledge the significance of this legal victory and urge the governor to seize this moment of validation to demonstrate his commitment to good governance and grassroots democracy.
“The time is ripe for the Kogi government to demonstrate its dedication to the principles of democracy, transparency; and accountability; by expediting the process of conducting local government elections.
“By adhering to the Supreme Court judgment and heeding the calls of civil society organisations, the government can uphold the rule of law and empower local communities to participate actively in their own development.
“KONGONET remains committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders, to advance the cause of good governance and sustainable development in Kogi State.
“We urge the government to act swiftly and decisively in fulfilling its obligations to the people of Kogi state,” he said. (NAN)
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