Fayemi Rejects Local Government Autonomy, Highlights Youth Despondency As National Threat

Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has criticized the recent Supreme Court ruling that granted financial autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local government councils. Describing local government autonomy as an aberration, Fayemi argued that it contradicts the principles of Nigeria’s federal system and leans towards unitarianism. The Supreme Court’s judgment mandated that the Federal Government pay local government funds directly into their accounts, following a suit by the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, against the 36 state governors over alleged fund misconduct.

Speaking at the “Economic Prosperity—Secrets of Audacious Leaders” summit organized by St. Racheal’s People Consulting, Fayemi contended that the federal government’s legal victory fails to address Nigeria’s core socio-economic and security issues. He emphasized that states should manage local government operations, criticizing the notion of local government being a third tier of government as a misnomer.

“We cannot return to a unitary state, but unfortunately, we are gradually heading towards one under the guise of restructuring,” Fayemi stated. He added that in true federal systems like those in India, the US, Canada, or Australia, states or provinces determine the number of local authorities based on their needs.

Fayemi also addressed the growing youth despondency in Nigeria, warning it poses a significant threat to the country’s stability if left unaddressed. He called for visionary and resolute leadership to implement reforms beneficial to the populace. “Leadership is sacrifice,” Fayemi said, urging a shift in perspective towards leadership in Nigeria.

He warned of the dire consequences of neglecting youth concerns, saying, “The time bomb is ticking. We will face major problems if we don’t address the sense of hopelessness, particularly among the youth. It is not just the responsibility of the president and governors; we all must contribute to building a transformed society.”

Fayemi’s remarks underscore the complexities surrounding the issue of local government autonomy and highlight the urgent need to address youth disenfranchisement in Nigeria.