The Kogi State House of Assembly has adopted Local Government Autonomy in the state in an effort to improve local government.
This came after the bill to amend the Federal Republic of Nigeria's 1999 constitution, as amended, was taken into consideration. This bill aimed to do away with the Joint Account of the State and Local Governments.
The measure also aims to set up several accounts for Local Governments, who will be given funding from the Federation Account.
The bill received universal support from the lawmakers in their various contributions, who praised it for being on time.
The bill, which is anticipated to improve democracy, will also grant financial independence to local governments, according to Deputy Speaker Alfa Rabiu.
Anthony Ujah, the representative for Olamaboro Constituency, argued that the measure is overdue and that it will relieve financial strain on the state governments.
While Ibrahim Usman, the member for Adavi, said that the measure would promote grassroots development, Umar Tenimu, his Lokoja one counterpart, pointed out that the Joint Account had prevented the Local Governments from fulfilling their obligations.
In a prompt response, Tade Adeyemi, President of the Kogi State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), praised the State Assembly for passing the law, noting that it would guarantee security and development in the council areas.
In order to achieve the necessary two-thirds majority at the National Assembly, he asked other State Assemblies to ensure the bill's passage.