Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has hailed the Supreme Court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to local government councils, describing it as a significant relief for state governments. Speaking to journalists in Uyo on Tuesday, Eno expressed concerns about the effective implementation of the new order.
“The recent decision of the Apex Court is a welcome development; it is also a huge relief to state governments,” Eno stated. “My concern is its effective implementation and the ability of local governments to handle their financial responsibilities.”
Eno acknowledged that the decision is now the law of the land, given that it is a pronouncement of the highest court in the country. However, he pointed out challenges regarding the prompt payment of local government workers’ salaries. “The challenge I envisage now is how primary school teachers can be paid promptly. How do we even clear the backlog that we have?” he questioned.
The governor emphasized that, under his administration, local governments have always received their due allocations. “I have not touched any funds meant for council authorities,” Eno affirmed. He noted that a key part of his administration’s ARISE Agenda focuses on the development of local government areas.
“So, with this judgment, I feel relieved, but my concern is how they will bear the brunt of the autonomy,” he said. Eno added that his administration has invested significant funds in offsetting arrears of gratuities, pensions, salaries, and other entitlements to local government workers. “It is my hope that under the new arrangement, local governments will take over the responsibilities of paying the salaries of teachers, health workers, and other personnel,” he concluded.
