Keep up with the latest news and be part of our weekly giveaways and airtime sharing; follow our WhatsApp channel for more updates. Click to Follow us

The Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) Ondo State chapter has accused the state administration of allegedly refusing federal funds intended for local government councils throughout the state.

The SDP State Chairman, Gbenga Akinbuli, made the accusation in a statement released in Akure on Saturday. He denounced the practice, calling it a threat to grassroots governance and a violation of constitutional provisions.

Akinbuli claims that the purported misappropriation of monies intended for local councils has impeded the provision of basic services including infrastructure, security, healthcare, and education at the local level.

“We have credible information that federal allocations meant for local governments are being collected by the state government,” the statement read in part.

“This revelation raises serious concerns about fiscal federalism, local autonomy, and the principles of democracy,” he added.

The party emphasized that the constitutional framework, which ensures local governments have financial independence, is violated by such a move.

The state administration was urged to stop the purported gathering and make sure local councils get their allotments without hindrance.

Additionally, Akinbuli claimed that persistently denying access to legally allotted monies jeopardizes local governments’ capacity to carry out their duties and provide public services, which in turn erodes public trust in the government.

“The people deserve better governance. It is time for the state government to uphold the constitution and respect the rights of local authorities to govern in the interest of their communities,” he said.

Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, was also urged to step in by the SDP chairman.

He maintained that some state administrations, like Ondo, consistently disregard local government authority, undermining the federal government’s commitment to decentralization and constitutional order.

Please don’t forget to “Allow the notification” so you will be the first to get our gist when we publish it. 
Drop your comment in the section below, and don’t forget to share the post.