NLC asks Abia to speak to reject bill violating S’court judgement

The Abia State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticized the proposed Local Government bill, claiming it aims to misappropriate council funds in the state. In a letter addressed to the Speaker, with reference number NLC/ABSC/AHA/VOL.11/001, dated October 25, 2024, and signed by NLC state chairman Ogbonnaya Okoro and Secretary Emma Alozie, the organization expressed its concerns about the bill, which they say allocates 90% of Local Government funds to the State Government, leaving only 10% for the Local Government Areas.

The NLC argued that this bill constitutes a serious infringement on the autonomy of Local Government Authorities, disregarding the Supreme Court ruling from July 11, 2024, which granted financial autonomy to local governments in Nigeria. They described the bill as detrimental to the people and the development of rural areas.

“We urge you and the entire House to reject this bill,” the NLC stated. “If passed, it would undermine the rights of Local Governments and violate the principles established by the Supreme Court ruling.”

The NLC referred to the Speaker as “a vibrant young man with a promising future in Nigerian politics” and cautioned against being misled by the Governor. They stressed that while the Governor enjoys immunity, the Speaker does not, and that circumventing the Supreme Court ruling could lead to jail time. “The choice is yours,” they noted, urging a commitment to transparency over corruption despite any potential financial incentives.

The NLC called for the complete rejection of the bill and urged the Speaker to publicly announce this decision, emphasizing support for the Supreme Court’s ruling granting Local Government autonomy.

They warned that workers in the state would oppose any efforts to advance the bill, stating, “If the House continues to consider this bill, the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees cannot guarantee industrial peace in the Local Governments, and we should not be held accountable for any unrest that may arise.”

The NLC instructed Labour Leaders in all 17 Local Government Areas to mobilize and educate members if the House moves forward with the bill. They urged the House to focus on policies that benefit workers and promote rural development rather than pursuing harmful legislation that would adversely affect the poor.