CHAIRMAN, Senate Services Committee, Senator Sunday Karimi, APC, Kogi West, has announced that the National Assembly will soon legislate to transfer the responsibility of conducting local council elections from state electoral bodies to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Speaking in Abuja about the recent Supreme Court judgment on financial autonomy for local governments, Senator Karimi praised President Bola Tinubu for facilitating this landmark ruling. He assured Nigerians that the National Assembly will work to ensure state compliance and amend the constitution to address contentious issues.
Karimi emphasized the significance of President Tinubu’s actions, stating, “Since 1999, local governments have been treated as extensions of state governments. Within one year, President Tinubu has restored their autonomy to the people.”
He acknowledged potential resistance from some state governors but remained optimistic, highlighting the President’s commitment to the masses. “It takes a leader who understands and prioritizes the people’s needs to achieve this,” Karimi added.
The Senator also stressed the importance of credible local government elections and the need for capable individuals to manage local funds effectively. He assured that the National Assembly would oversee the proper allocation of federal revenue to local governments in accordance with the law.
Karimi concluded by expressing confidence in President Tinubu’s legacy and prospects for a second term, noting, “Prosperity will remember President Tinubu for this epoch-making achievement.”
