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Court to Hear Osun Objections on Local Government Funds Suit Sept. 29
ABUJA, Nigeria — A Federal High Court in Osogbo has fixed Sept. 29 to hear the preliminary objections filed by the Osun State government in a case over the management of local government funds.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The case was brought against the state government by a group of local government chairmen and councilors who are challenging the alleged control of council funds by the state. They argue that the practice violates constitutional provisions that guarantee financial independence for local governments.
In the latest development, Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel scheduled Sept. 29 for the hearing of the objections, which could determine whether the suit will proceed to full trial.
State Government’s Position
The Osun government, through its legal team, raised objections questioning the jurisdiction of the court to hear the matter. The state also argued that the claimants failed to follow proper legal procedures before filing the suit.
According to the defense, the issue involves political questions that the court should not decide. They asked the judge to strike out the case, saying it lacks merit.
Claimants’ Arguments
The local government officials who brought the suit insist that the state government has no right to withhold or interfere with funds allocated to councils. They say such actions weaken grassroots governance and deny communities the benefits of projects funded by the federal allocation.
The claimants are asking the court to order direct payment of funds from the Federation Account to local governments, bypassing state control. They argue that financial independence would allow councils to provide better services in health, education, and infrastructure.
Background of the Dispute
The control of local government funds has long been a controversial issue in Nigeria. The Constitution provides that funds should go into a joint state-local government account. But in practice, many state governments have been accused of dominating the use of the money.
Critics say this practice undermines local democracy and leaves councils unable to meet the needs of their communities. Over the years, civil society groups and opposition politicians have demanded reforms to guarantee autonomy for the third tier of government.
The Nigerian Governors Forum has defended the current arrangement, saying it ensures accountability and prevents misuse of funds at the local level. However, many residents and political analysts argue that the system allows governors to exert too much power.
What Comes Next
If the court upholds Osun’s objections, the suit could be dismissed without further hearing. But if the judge rules in favor of the claimants, the case will proceed to a full trial, which could set a major precedent on the financial autonomy of councils.
Observers say the outcome could influence similar cases in other states, where local government officials have also challenged the control of their funds.
Wider Impact
Legal experts note that the judgment could reshape the relationship between state and local governments across Nigeria. A ruling that favors council autonomy may push the federal government to enforce direct allocations, while a decision for the states could strengthen governors’ authority.
For residents of Osun State, the case carries direct consequences. If councils gain more control of their funds, they could undertake more projects at the community level. But if the current system remains, critics warn that grassroots development may continue to lag.
The scheduled hearing on Sept. 29 is expected to draw attention from political actors, civil society organizations, and citizens seeking clarity on how public funds are managed.
A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.
They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.
The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.
Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.
He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.
According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.
Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The victims, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
Speaking while briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the rescue operation was achieved through coordinated efforts of multiple security agencies.
He explained that five of the abducted passengers were first released, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning without injuries.
According to him, the combined pressure from security forces, supported by the state government and the Inspector-General of Police, led to the successful outcome of the operation.
Emenari further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, adding that seven of them are strongly linked to the kidnapping incident, with some victims already identifying them.
He also noted that clearance operations have begun across forest areas in the state to flush out criminal groups, in line with directives from security authorities.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, while receiving the rescued passengers, expressed concern over rising cases of kidnapping in the state but welcomed the safe return of all 18 victims.
He confirmed that among those rescued were eight candidates on their way to write examinations, and called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the affected exams for them.
The governor assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and strengthening security across Benue State, while also urging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.
He further directed the state health authorities to conduct medical evaluations for all rescued persons and promised government support for those affected.
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