Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has signed the Local Government Administration Law 2024, sparking criticism from opposition groups and civil society organizations.
Soludo argued that absolute autonomy for local governments would lead to “humongous chaos” and unsustainable development. He emphasized that Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution empowers state governments to enact laws for local government administration.
However, opponents claim the law undermines the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy and allows the state to control federal allocations meant for local governments.
The Labour Party and Civil Rights and Liberty Organisation have condemned the law, stating it will deny local governments funds for grassroots development.
Soludo maintains that the law promotes transparency, collaboration, and coordination among tiers of government, ensuring sustainable development and protecting local government workers’ interests.