The governor of Akwa Ibom, Umo Eno says the supreme court’s ruling on financial autonomy for LGAs is a great relief to state governments.
He spoke on Tuesday during an interactive session with newsmen.
On Thursday, the supreme court gave judgement that the federal government from now on pay allocations directly to LG councils.
The seven-member panel of justices ruled that state governments have persistently abused their powers by withholding and using the funds meant for LGAs.
The highest court in the land also directed the federal government to retain allocations of LGAs governed by unelected officials.
“The recent decision of the apex court is a welcome development. It is also a huge relief to state governments,” Eno said.
“My concern is its effective implementation and the ability of local governments to handle their financial responsibilities.
“The challenge I envisage now is how primary school teachers can be paid promptly. How do we even clear the backlog that we have?”
The Akwa Ibom mentioned that his administration has not diverted funds meant for LGs.
“I have not touched any fund meant for council authorities,” he said.
“So with this judgment, I feel relieved, but my concern is how they will bear the brunt of the autonomy.
“My administration has channelled volumes of funds into offsetting arrears of gratuities, pensions, salaries and other entitlements to local government workers.
“It is my hope that under the new arrangement, local governments will take over the responsibilities of paying the salaries of teachers, health workers and other personnel.”