NLC Warns Against Politicizing Local Government Autonomy as NULGE Inaugurates New NAC

 

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has cautioned the federal government against politicizing the issue of local government autonomy, emphasizing that the recent judicial ruling on the matter must be fully respected and implemented without delay.

Speaking at the inauguration of the newly elected National Administrative Council (NAC) members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Abuja, NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, stressed that local government autonomy is no longer a political matter but a legal obligation.

LEADERSHIP recalls that months after the Supreme Court’s ruling granting full financial autonomy to local governments, the implementation has faced delays, with allocations from the federation account still not being paid directly to the local government areas (LGAs).

Addressing NULGE members in Abuja on Sunday, Ajaero warned against further delays or attempts to manipulate the Supreme Court ruling, stressing that local government autonomy is a legal mandate, not a privilege to be granted or withheld by the government.

“Our struggle has gone beyond just agitation; it is now about enforcing the law. We are no longer at the mercy of any governor, president, or minister. The release of funds to local governments should not be a political decision,” Ajaero asserted. “We have secured the autonomy now, and I urge the federal government not to politicize it.”

In his inaugural address, the newly elected President-General of NULGE, Comrade Aliyu Haruna Kankara, reiterated the union’s commitment to ensuring full local government autonomy and improving the welfare of local government workers across Nigeria.

Kankara vowed to advocate for the restoration of the local government system’s past glory, prioritizing the welfare of local government employees. He outlined his administration’s key objectives, including strengthening local government autonomy, engaging stakeholders to ensure administrative and financial independence for LGAs, and pushing for fair representation in wage negotiations. He also emphasized the need for capacity building and improved welfare programs for local government workers.

Kankara paid tribute to his predecessor, Comrade Akeem Olatunji Ambali, acknowledging his transformative leadership that had strengthened NULGE, making it more united, stable, and influential within the broader labor movement.

With confidence in his new role, Kankara assured union members that his administration would operate transparently, inclusively, and with a focus on tangible progress. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high ethical standards, dedication, and loyalty within the union.

“I promise to run an open-door policy where any member can approach me or any leader with ideas or information that can contribute to the union’s progress,” Kankara said.