In a bid to strengthen governance at the grassroots level, the Kogi State House of Assembly has approved Local Government Autonomy in the state.
This followed the consideration of the bill to alter the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended which seeks to abolish the Joint Account of the State and Local Governments.
The bill also seeks to create different accounts for Local Governments where they are expected to receive their allocation from the Federation Account.
The Lawmakers in their various contributions unanimously threw their support behind the bill, describing it as timely.
The Deputy Speaker, Alfa Rabiu noted that the bill which is expected to enhance democracy, will also provide financial independence at the Local Government level.
Anthony Ujah, the member representing Olamaboro Constituency, explained that the bill is long overdue, saying it will reduce financial pressure on the State Governments.
While the member representing Adavi, Ibrahim Usman stated that the bill will enhance development at the grassroots, Lokoja one counterpart, Umar Tenimu noted that the Local Governments have not been able to meet their responsibilities due to the Joint Account.
In a swift reaction, the President, Kogi State Chapter, Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, (NULGE) Tade Adeyemi, applauded the State Assembly for the passage of the bill saying the passage would ensure security and development in the council areas.
He urged other State Assemblies to ensure the passage of the bill to get the required two-thirds majority at the National Assembly.
