Katstina State Governor, Radda Highlights Challenges to Local Government Autonomy
Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has highlighted potential issues related to financial management and personnel matters in light of the recent Supreme Court ruling granting financial autonomy to local government councils across the country.
During a meeting convened to discuss the implications of this ruling, Radda expressed concerns about the practical challenges that may arise despite widespread optimism about the court’s decision. His chief press secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, released a statement in Abuja outlining the governor’s request for a detailed analysis of the legal consequences of the Supreme Court’s judgment.
Governor Radda emphasized, “I did not call you all today to interpret the judgment. Katsina State is a law-abiding state and will operate under the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I have asked the state’s attorney general to give me a full report on the legal implications of the Supreme Court decision.”
He called for cooperation and collaboration among all stakeholders to effectively manage the new circumstances introduced by the court’s decision. Stressing the importance of a comprehensive approach, he stated, “We must use the coming weeks to review all our existing laws and begin to work on new laws that will harmonize our developmental objectives.”
To address these challenges, Radda announced the formation of a committee that includes representatives from the state, local government, and state assembly, as well as other experts. This committee is tasked with developing a strategic plan moving forward. Reflecting on the ongoing issues, he noted, “We are facing various socio-economic challenges coupled with insecurity in our frontline local governments. When I took office in 2023, over 20 local governments were ravaged by insecurity. Our concerted efforts have reduced insecurity to the fringes of the frontline local governments.”
