Sly Ezeokenwa, the National Chairman of the All-Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), recently addressed accusations that the Anambra State House of Assembly is trying to control funds meant for local governments, dismissing the claims as completely untrue. Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra had previously voiced concerns about the idea of granting full autonomy to local governments, calling it a “recipe for humongous chaos” in Nigeria, particularly when it comes to sustainable development.
During a press conference following the signing of the Anambra State Local Government Administration Law, Soludo highlighted the importance of having local governments remit part of their federal allocations to the state government. This, according to him, ensures development at all levels and prevents mismanagement of funds at the local level.
Ezeokenwa, speaking on ARISE NEWS, was adamant in refuting the notion that the new law enables the state government to take over local government finances. He clarified, “There is no clause in this law that authorizes the state to seize or manage the funds allocated to local governments.” He further stressed that the misconception that the law allows the state to take control of local government allocations is entirely false.
Ezeokenwa went on to explain that the law encourages collaboration between local government chairmen on essential services, which are referred to as “Common Services.” These services, he noted, are handled collectively but do not mean that the state government controls local government resources. Local government chairmen remain in charge of managing their respective funds, even though a portion of these funds is allocated to joint services, ensuring efficiency in service delivery.
He also pointed out that full autonomy for local governments would involve them managing staffing and salaries independently. However, the Anambra law mandates certain shared responsibilities for efficiency, while local governments still maintain autonomy over their own funds.
Ezeokenwa reiterated that the law’s focus on collaboration for Common Services is fully in line with constitutional mandates and does not undermine local government independence.
📌 Editor’s Note: For content partnerships and collaborations, reach out via editor@naija247news.com
Naija247news Media Group LLC is committed to ethical, independent journalism that serves the public interest. Our editorial process prioritizes accuracy, fairness, and transparency in reporting. All content is fact-checked and held to the highest standards of integrity. Learn more in our full editorial policy here.
© 2025 Naija247news Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from Naija247news Media Group LLC.
Reporting by Joshua Chinonye in Lagos, Nigeria.
