In a recent development, a coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has leveled serious accusations against Anambra State Governor Prof. Charles Soludo, claiming his actions are undermining a recent Supreme Court ruling that favored local government autonomy. The coalition includes notable groups such as the Save Nigeria Democracy Group (SNDG), the Nigerian Democratic Movement, and the Campaign for Greater Nigeria.
During a press conference in Abuja, Mr. Cornelius Ajagbe, coordinator of SNDG, expressed concern over what he referred to as the governor’s blatant disregard for the Supreme Court’s decisions. He further accused Soludo of engaging in activities that he believes constitute a direct affront to President Bola Tinubu and his administration’s efforts to address Nigeria’s pressing economic challenges.
Ajagbe questioned the rationale behind Soludo’s decision to enact laws that oppose financial autonomy for local government councils, especially when the presidency has publicly supported the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling granting such autonomy. “It’s perplexing that despite the federal government’s backing of this important decision, the governor chose to pursue laws that undermine it,” he noted.
To counter Soludo’s perceived challenges against both the president and the Supreme Court, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has established a new Directorate in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), appointing Lami Chinade to lead this initiative. The directorate’s primary goal is to ensure that local government funds remain untouched by state interference.
Ajagbe criticized the Anambra State government’s approach, suggesting that rather than addressing the pressing insecurity issues in the region, the governor appears to be dismissing the very existence of local government as a level of governance. He expressed bewilderment at Soludo’s statement that financial independence for local councils could lead to chaos. “Such a perspective reflects a self-serving arrogance. It seems Soludo believes he alone possesses the wisdom to interpret laws, even those upheld by the highest court in the land,” Ajagbe remarked.
The coalition described Soludo’s disdain for the presidency as “legendary,” citing his government’s attempts to challenge the Supreme Court’s judgment regarding the leadership of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), which has repeatedly affirmed Chief Edozie Njoku as the rightful National Chairman.
Ajagbe elaborated on the protests occurring in major areas of the Federal Capital Territory, such as Maitama and Transcorp Junction. He stated, “The posters you see around are a peaceful expression of our frustration regarding the determined efforts of some governors to hinder the progress of local governments in our country.”
