Wike endorses Tinubu’s push for LG Autonomy

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to achieve autonomy for local governments.

Wike voiced his support at the inauguration of the War College/Army Checkpoint Road and adjoining roads in Ushafa, Bwari Area Council, Abuja, on Monday.

He stated that he has no apologies for backing the initiative, urging local government residents to hold their leaders accountable.

Wike praised the productive relationship he and the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, share with the chairmen of the FCT’s six area councils, highlighting effective collaboration since their appointment.

“I challenge anyone to show otherwise. Since our appointment, I have never inquired about their allocations and am not interested. I have my own allocation, and they have theirs,” Wike said.

“What they do with their allocations is for their people to scrutinise, as we are accountable for ours.”

On August 21, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, established an Inter-Ministerial Committee to enforce the July 11 Supreme Court ruling, which mandates financial autonomy for local governments.

This initiative aligns with Tinubu’s commitment to implementing constitutional provisions recognising local governments as a third tier of government.