The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has asserted that no state or individual has the power to overturn the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding local government autonomy.
During a media discussion in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, Fagbemi emphasized that the apex court’s decision is binding and must be adhered to by all parties involved.
His comments were prompted by the recent passage of the Anambra State Local Government Administration Law 2024. Governor Chukwuma Soludo had contended that this legislation was essential due to the complexities associated with complete local government autonomy. Soludo noted that absolute autonomy for all 774 local government areas in the country is impractical and could result in disorder if not managed properly.
In response, Fagbemi firmly rejected any proposals to alter the Supreme Court’s ruling. “Are they going to rewrite the judgment of the Supreme Court? Once we have the full details of their law, we will act accordingly,” he stated.
Addressing rumors about a three-month grace period for implementing the ruling, Fagbemi clarified, “There is no such moratorium. The judgment was pronounced, and while we recognize the need for certain frameworks to be established prior to full implementation, compliance is mandatory.”
Fagbemi highlighted that the federal government is taking a cautious approach to prevent potential legal disputes during the enforcement of autonomy.
He explained, “Some states have announced elections beyond October, and we are verifying whether those schedules are legitimate. We aim to avoid a hasty implementation that could provoke legal challenges or lead to nullification by the courts.”
He concluded with a stern warning that any state that disregards the Supreme Court ruling would face contempt consequences. “I am aware that one or two states are moving in that direction, but they must realize that there is no moratorium for anyone. The judgment will be enforced,” he declared.
