Femi Falana calls for accountability in Nigerian local government funding

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has urged Nigerians to demand greater accountability from state and local governments regarding the management of public funds and the delivery of essential services. Speaking at a screening of the investigative documentary ‘LG Billions in the Dark’ in Lagos, Falana argued that focusing solely on the federal government ignores the critical role of local councils in national development.

Falana criticized state authorities for allegedly undermining the financial autonomy of local governments, despite a July 2024 Supreme Court judgment. That ruling affirmed that allocations meant for Nigeria’s 774 local governments should be paid directly from the federation account to the councils. He noted that many states continue to disregard this decision, which impacts the quality of roads, water, sanitation, healthcare, and education.

Furthermore, Falana highlighted the weakening of local governance due to political interference and poor electoral practices. He specifically pointed to State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), claiming they conduct manipulated elections that favor ruling parties, thereby eroding public confidence in grassroots democracy.