The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Abia State has called on the Speaker of the State House of Assembly to reject a controversial bill proposing to allocate 90% of Local Government funds to the state government. In a letter dated October 25, 2024, NLC leaders Ogbonnaya Okoro and Emma Alozie argued that the bill undermines a July 2024 Supreme Court ruling, which granted financial independence to Local Governments across Nigeria.
Describing the bill as a direct infringement on local autonomy, the NLC warned that any attempt to pass the bill would negatively impact rural development, potentially violating the Supreme Court’s judgment. They cautioned the Speaker to prioritize transparency and the interests of the people over political pressures, reminding him of his political future and potential legal consequences for disregarding the Court’s ruling.
The NLC also issued a strong warning about possible unrest among state workers if the Assembly proceeds with the bill, as labor leaders have been mobilized across the 17 Local Government Areas in Abia. The NLC called on the House to support policies that favor worker welfare and rural development over actions that could harm the state’s residents.
News Editor