The Senator representing Lagos Central, Wasiu Sanni-Eshilokun, on Saturday called on the federal government to pressure state governments to desist from operating joint accounts with local governments.

Commenting on local government autonomy, the senator said it is effective in Lagos, where councils operate independently.

“Local governments in Lagos State have been autonomous and manage their funds without interference,” Mr Sanni-Eshilokun said. “I once served as a local government chairman in Lagos and can confirm the autonomy is real and functioning.”

He expressed confidence that states yet to comply with the Supreme Court ruling would soon do so.

“It is a democratic cause and, eventually, all states will abide by the judgment,” he noted.

Asked how the Senate could support this, he said the federal government had promised to sanction non-compliant states. He explained that funds meant for councils would now be paid directly to them by the federal government.

“The FG has directed that any state still operating a joint account will face consequences,” he stated. “It’s only a matter of time. The FG must insist on direct payments to local governments.” 

The senator urged residents to hold their council chairpersons and councillors accountable and engage with them to improve their performance.

He stated this after casting his vote on Lagos Island during the local government elections across Lagos.

Mr Sanni-Eshilokun expressed support for the state’s electoral commission, stating that its role in conducting local government polls is constitutional.

“Communities must hold their chairmen and councillors accountable and engage them regularly to ensure they serve their people effectively,” he said.

He urged elected officials to work hard, deliver democratic dividends, and develop infrastructure across the various local government areas.

“It is important to bring the government closer to the people,” he added.

Speaking on the constitution, he stressed that nothing should be done outside its provisions in a democratic society.

He noted that, even in developed countries like the U.S., state commissions conduct elections, including Senate and presidential polls.

“Therefore, there is no reason to prevent state commissions from conducting state and local government elections,” Mr Sanni-Eshilokun said.

(NAN)