The Labour Party (LP) on Thursday said the Supreme Court judgement granting autonomy to the 774 Local Government Councils in the country, is a welcome development.
The party in a statement made available to New Telegraph, noted that local government areas that are the closest level of government to the ordinary people deserve to enjoy some form of autonomy to address challenges facing the masses within their jurisdiction.
It however told the councils that the autonomy comes with a huge responsibility, which includes prudent management of resources.
“The expectation of Nigerians from the local government administration now is simple,” the statement added.
The party urged them to take up the challenge of their newfound independence to ensure judicious use of public funds in their custody.
“We would also like to urge council chairmen not to see the additional inflow of public funds as an opportunity to engage in reckless spending and embarking on white elephant projects which can negate the whole essence of the financial autonomy granted them,” the Labour Party stated.
It added that the councils now have greater freedom to initiate and complete projects which will reduce suffering at the grassroots.