Patriotic Elders Back Agitations For Restoration Of Local Government Autonomy

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The Patriotic Elders Forum For Peace and Development has thrown its weight behind agitations by some Senators for the restoration of full Autonomy to Local Governments in the country.

According to the Forum,the Autonomy, if restored, will fast track development at the grassroots and help in curtailing poverty and insecurity currently bedeviling the nation.

The Elders who made the remark shortly after their meeting in Kano on Friday, said they fully support calls by Senator AbduRahman Kawu Sumaila who represents Kano South in the National Assembly,and other Senators for the return of full powers to the Local Governments.

Reading the outcome of their meeting, the President of the Forum, Dr Bature Abdul’Aziz, said the restoration of the Autonomy though long overdue, but that “it is better late than never.”

“The Local Governments should have their Autonomy fully restored to them in such a way that they will operate within the framework that they will carry the people along in delivering the dividends of democracy to the grassroots.

“This is necessary considering how the Local Governments had in the past spent their monthly grants without taking care of the people’s needs.

“Senators should insert a clause in the Autonomy law to compel Local Government Chairmen to fully commit themselves in writing that they will spend the grants they collect judiciously.

“Or in alternative, the provision should cause the National Assembly to control the spendings of the Local Governments,”Abdul’Aziz said.

The Forum then commended Senator Kawu Sumaila for his sound representation and excellent contributions on the floor of the Senate despite the fact that this is his first outing at the Red Chamber.

It also lauded the contributions of the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, and other Senators towards the realization of the Local Government Autonomy.