Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Cross River State Enhances Local Government Autonomy with New Legislation


In a significant move towards strengthening grassroots governance, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has enacted the Cross River State Local Government Amendment Bill 2025. This legislation aims to bolster local government autonomy and improve service delivery across the state’s 18 local government areas.


Key Provisions of the Amendment Bill


The newly signed bill introduces several pivotal changes to the structure and operations of local governments:

Expansion of Departments: The number of departments within each local government has been increased from seven to twelve. This expansion is designed to enhance administrative efficiency and broaden the scope of services provided to residents.

Adjusted Funding: Allocations to ministries, departments, and agencies have been revised to ensure improved service delivery. This adjustment reflects the state’s commitment to adequately fund local initiatives and projects.

New Responsibilities for Vice Chairmen: The office of the vice chairman in each local government is now tasked with overseeing humanitarian affairs, peace and conflict resolution, and sports activities. This move aims to promote social cohesion and address community-specific needs more effectively.


Bringing Governance Closer to the People


Governor Otu emphasized that these reforms are part of a “people-first” strategy intended to bring government operations closer to the grassroots level. By empowering local governments with greater autonomy and resources, the state anticipates increased participation, accountability, and sustainable development within local communities.


The introduction of Ward Relation Officers is another notable aspect of the bill. These officers will serve as liaisons between the government and local communities, ensuring that the voices and concerns of residents are heard and addressed promptly.


Context of the Supreme Court Ruling


This legislative development follows a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court in July 2024, which granted full financial and administrative autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local government areas. The judgment was hailed as a triumph for fiscal federalism and was expected to enhance the capacity of local councils to deliver essential services and promote regional economic development. 


However, the path to full implementation of local government autonomy has encountered challenges. Reports indicate that some state legislatures have taken actions perceived as undermining the Supreme Court’s decision. For instance, the Cross River House of Assembly recently approved a deduction of 7.5% from the monthly federal allocation of each local government area, a move seen by some as contradictory to the spirit of the court’s ruling. 


Looking Ahead


The signing of the Cross River State Local Government Amendment Bill 2025 represents a proactive step by the state government to align with the Supreme Court’s mandate and enhance local governance. By expanding departmental structures, adjusting funding mechanisms, and assigning new responsibilities, the state aims to create a more responsive and effective local government system that truly serves the needs of its people.


As these reforms take effect, it will be crucial to monitor their impact on service delivery and community development. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other states striving to implement local government autonomy in a manner that genuinely benefits their constituents.


 

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