By Dr. Isaiah Osifo
I congratulate Nigerians across the 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria on the Judgement of the Supreme Court over the Autonomy of local governments in Nigeria.
The autonomy of local governments is one of the pillars of democracy amply identified in my manifestoe . It is an intergal part of my political DNA as I have myself been a longstanding campaigner for local government autonomy. My aspiration to be elected as the governor of Edo State, therefore, draws optimal impetus from the obligation to guarantee freedom for the third tier of governance .
I have spent many years as Edo State Chairman of the Association of local governments of Nigeria, and as national vice president of ALGON fighting for the Autonomy of local government in Nigeria.In the year,2001,the ALGON leadership in Nigeria, including me sued the 36 State governors up to the supreme Court on the Autonomy of local governments in Nigeria .The Supreme Court, under the leadership of Justice Mohammed Uwais, gave judgment in favour of the state governors.
However, the judgment of the Supreme Court under Justice Uwais did not deter me from continuous advocacy for the autonomy of local governments in Nigeria.
The effectiveness of today’s judgement,11th July,2024,by the Supreme Court will still depend on two factors:
1. Free and fair election that will enable the electorates to elect the councillors and chairmen of the local government council.
2. A democratically elected governor who will be committed to the rule of law and respect for the autonomy of local governments.
I plead with the good people of Edo State to appreciate my foresight and commitment to good governance at the local government level and all levels of government in Nigeria by voting for me in the governorship election.I hold credentials on good governance that are far ahead of any candidate in the contest for governorship election.
When I am elected as the governor of Edo State,the government will be committed to the rule of law and responsible administration for the best interest of the people of Edo State.
It is obvious from the judgment of the Supreme Court that present and past governments in Edo State have cheated the people for the advancement of their personal interests.
Dr. Isaiah Osifo,
APGA Governorship Candidate, Edo State.
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