Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has cautioned that courts may nullify local government elections conducted by state governors if they failed to comply with legal requirements following the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy.
Speaking at the 12th convocation of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, on Tuesday, Fagbemi emphasized that there is no truth to reports suggesting that state governors had been granted a three-month moratorium to delay the implementation of the court’s decision.
The ruling ensures the financial autonomy of all 774 local governments.
Fagbemi pointed out that some state governments have scheduled local elections beyond the October deadline and may face legal challenges if their actions do not align with the law.
“Typically, six months’ notice is required for elections, and failing to meet this condition could result in nullification by the courts,” he said.
He stressed that the federal government remains committed to enforcing the Supreme Court ruling, dismissing claims of a delay.
“There’s no moratorium. Logistical arrangements are needed, but the ruling will be implemented,” Fagbemi clarified.
The Supreme Court’s July decision mandates direct payment of local government allocations, bypassing the joint accounts with state governments.
However, some states have continued with the existing payment system, risking contempt of court if they do not comply with the ruling.
