By Seyi Babalola
Despite the Supreme Court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to the country’s 774 local government councils, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has directed that newly appointed transition committees resume in the state’s 18 local government areas and 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
According to Amidu Takuro, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, who issued the decree on behalf of the governor, the measure was necessary to prevent creating a vacuum.
The state administration, through the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, Kayode Ajulo, had previously justified the decision, stating that the governor acted within his constitutional authority.
Aiyedatiwa had a few days ago appointed 357 members to the transition committees, shortly after an Ondo State High Court nullified the creation of the 33 LCDAs, after which the apex court gave a judgement that fiscal allocation must only be made to councils with elected chairmen.
However, Takuro, who met with the transition committees, stated that several states, including Ondo, are affected by the Supreme Court’s verdict, emphasising the need for compliance with electoral laws.
The Commissioner maintained that, upon appointment by the governor, the transition committees became operational immediately without a necessary formal inauguration.
He added that implementing the Supreme Court judgement required procedural requirements as well as ongoing negotiations among governors at a scheduled meeting.
