ADC Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar
Former Vice President and Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has pledged to ensure that federal allocations meant for local governments are paid directly to the councils if he is elected president.
Atiku made the commitment in a statement issued on Tuesday by his spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, in which he stressed that respect for the rule of law would be a defining principle of his administration.
According to the statement, Atiku believes that every tier of government should enjoy the constitutional independence guaranteed under Nigeria’s federal system, including financial autonomy for local governments.
The former vice president cited the Supreme Court’s July 2024 judgment, which directed that allocations from the Federation Account be paid directly to local government councils, rather than through state governments.
He expressed concern that the judgment has yet to be fully implemented by the current administration, describing its enforcement as essential to strengthening governance at the grassroots.
Atiku assured Nigerians that his administration would faithfully comply with valid court decisions and uphold the constitutional rights of local governments.
He also promised to protect local government autonomy and ensure that public funds are transferred directly to the level of government for which they are constitutionally intended.
The former vice president said the move would improve accountability, enhance service delivery at the grassroots and reinforce democratic governance across the country.
