Afijio Residents Back Financial Autonomy, Slam Oyo ALGON
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Residents of Afijio Local Government Area in Oyo State have strongly condemned the recent decision by the Oyo State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) to withdraw from the national body.
In a statement signed by Hon. Owolabi Asado Oyekunle, a leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former councilor in Afijio LG, said the people of Afijio expressed their dissatisfaction with the move by the Oyo State ALGON, labeling it as a ploy to evade the financial autonomy granted by the court. They argued that the decision reflects the shallow interests of a few individuals rather than the collective good of the people.
“We categorically state that no one, no matter how highly placed, has our mandate to speak against the popular and widely commended judgment of the Supreme Court, which grants financial autonomy to all local governments,” the statement read. “This autonomy is crucial for the grassroots development that has been long overdue in our communities.”
The statement further criticized the Oyo State ALGON’s decision as a backward step, likening it to choosing perpetual bondage and slavery over the freedom granted by the Supreme Court ruling. The leaders of Afijio LG reaffirmed their commitment to the financial autonomy of local governments, which they believe is essential for addressing critical infrastructure needs such as road networks, water supply, healthcare, and education.
“We reject in totality this idea of perpetual slavery and bondage and embrace complete autonomy for our local government,” the statement continued. “Our LG is in dire need of grassroots development, and we stand firmly in support of the Supreme Court’s ruling.”
Hon. Oyekunle also took the opportunity to commend the Attorney General of the Federation for his role in achieving this historic milestone, expressing hope for continued successes in his official duties.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of faith in Nigeria’s future, expressing the hope that the financial autonomy of local governments will pave the way for significant improvements in the quality of life for citizens at the grassroots level.
