The Federal Government has warned Local Government Area (LGA) chairmen against misusing FAAC funds, threatening jail time for offenders. Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi emphasized that local officials must adhere to financial regulations or face legal consequences. This move aims to address long-standing issues of fund mismanagement and local governance.
In a recent address at the 17th-anniversary lecture of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), Attorney General and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi issued a firm warning to Local Government Area (LGA) chairmen against the misuse of funds from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC). Fagbemi emphasized that LGA chairmen are not immune from prosecution and could face imprisonment for any financial misconduct.
He highlighted the crucial role of local governments in managing development projects and improving grassroots security. Fagbemi criticized the historical issue of state governments withholding local government funds and stressed the need for effective local governance to address Nigeria's current security challenges.
The Minister also discussed the federal government's strategy to enforce local government autonomy through the Supreme Court, acknowledging anticipated resistance from state assemblies. Fagbemi's comments reflect ongoing concerns about governance and corruption at the local level, urging security agents to adhere to legal standards and avoid unlawful detentions.
HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, also spoke at the event, calling for a reduction in the cost of governance and attributing national issues like insecurity and unemployment to widespread corruption. His remarks underscored the need for systemic reforms to address these pressing challenges.
The federal government's stern warning signals a push for greater accountability and transparency in local government financial management.
