Lagos Assembly summons Attorney General over S’Court ruling

…As Lawmakers commend Police for anti-kidnapping efforts

The Lagos State House of Assembly has summoned the State Attorney-General, Mr. Lawal Pedro, to provide clarity on the recent Supreme Court judgment concerning local government funding in Nigeria.

On Thursday, the Supreme Court ruled that all 774 local government councils in the country should receive their funds directly from the Federal Government and manage these funds independently.

The court also declared that allocations to local government councils run by caretaker committees are illegal.

Following a voice vote during the plenary session, Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, emphasized the need for a thorough understanding of the judgment to ensure compliance.

“It is essential for us to seek clarification and understanding of this judgment. Inviting the Attorney-General to brief us will help prevent any misinterpretation,” Obasa stated.

In addition to addressing the Supreme Court ruling, the Lagos State House of Assembly has resolved to commend the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade, for their successful operation against kidnappers in the state.

This operation recently led to the elimination of nine kidnappers and has brought calm to the affected areas, including Ladipo and Ikorodu.

Speaker Obasa praised the police force’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of their role in maintaining public safety.

“The police and officers involved in the operation deserve our commendation. We will send letters of appreciation to both Egbetokun and Fayoade, encouraging them to continue their diligent work,” he said.

Obasa also called for accelerated considerations for the creation of state police to complement the federal system.

Majority Leader Hon. Noheem Adams recounted the successful police operation, noting the resultant peace in the Ladipo and Ikorodu areas.

“Since the operation, there has been relative calm, and the Ikorodu area, previously troubled by kidnappings, now enjoys peace,” Adams reported.

In a separate development, the House of Assembly applauded Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her initiative to promote subsistence agriculture.

Speaker Obasa endorsed the idea of encouraging Nigerians to cultivate home gardens, highlighting its potential to enhance food sufficiency.

He recalled the historical practice of school farms, advocating for a return to such measures to bolster food security.