PORT HARCOURT A brewing storm threatens to engulf Rivers State as the Chairmen of Local Government Areas (LGAs) level a scathing accusation against Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The Rivers State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) alleges that the Governor has been deliberately withholding statutory allocations meant for the LGAs since April 2024. This unprecedented move, they claim, cripples local governance and throws the state into a state of uncertainty.
ALGON Cries Foul: Accusations and Frustrations
At a press conference held in Port Harcourt, ALGON Chairman and Port Harcourt City LGA boss, Hon. Allwell Ihunda, painted a grim picture. He stated that allocations for 22 LGAs have been withheld since April, with Emohua LGA facing a financial squeeze since March. This action, according to Ihunda, starves the third tier of government of vital funds needed to discharge its functions.
The allegation goes beyond mere withholding. Ihunda further claimed Governor Fubara held a meeting with top personnel from the LGAs, directing them to compile salary vouchers for civil servants, excluding Chairmen, Vice-Chairmen, Councilors, and other political appointees. This move, seen by many as a veiled attempt to control local government finances, has fueled accusations of the Governor attempting to “dip his hands into LGA funds.
Beyond Delayed Funds: A Political Standoff?
The timing of the alleged allocation freeze coincides with a period of heightened political tension in Rivers State. Whispers of a rift between the Governor and the LGAs have been circulating for some time, with speculations of a potential power struggle gaining traction.
Adding fuel to the fire, ALGON, in a bold move, called upon President Muhammadu Buhari to intervene. They urged the President to “call Governor Fubara to order” and prevent a “total breakdown of law and order” in the state. This escalation suggests a lack of faith in resolving the issue within the state’s political framework.
The Fallout: Crippled Services and Public Anxiety
The potential consequences of the allocation freeze are severe. Local government services, already stretched thin, could grind to a halt. Road maintenance, sanitation efforts, healthcare delivery, and basic infrastructure projects could all be impacted. This disruption would directly affect the lives of millions of Rivers residents who rely on these services for their daily well-being.
The anxiety extends beyond service delivery. Businesses operating within the LGAs face uncertainty, with delayed payments from local authorities a looming threat. Investors may shy away from the state, further hindering economic activity.
The Fubara Administration’s Response: Silence Speaks Volumes
As of press time, Governor Fubara and his administration have yet to offer a public response to the allegations. This silence is deafening and only serves to deepen the public’s anxiety. Transparency and clear communication are crucial in such a volatile situation.
Seeking Solutions: A Call for Dialogue and Due Process
The current standoff demands immediate action. Open communication between Governor Fubara and the LGA Chairmen is essential. A transparent explanation for the alleged withholding of funds needs to be provided.
If legitimate concerns exist regarding the use of LGA funds, established legal channels are available for investigation and accountability. Bypassing these processes and resorting to financial pressure tactics only exacerbates the situation.
The Legal Landscape: A Potential Intervention?
Interestingly, a recent court ruling offers a ray of hope. A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, in an unrelated case, ordered the Rivers State Government to maintain the status quo regarding LGA allocations until the determination of a separate suit. This ruling, if applicable to the current situation, could force the Governor’s hand and compel the release of the withheld funds.
Beyond the Standoff: Rethinking Local Government Funding
The current crisis exposes a deeper issue: the often contentious relationship between state governments and LGAs in Nigeria. The over-reliance of LGAs on allocations from state governments creates a power imbalance and vulnerability.
A national conversation on strengthening local government financial autonomy is long overdue. Exploring alternative funding models, such as increased direct allocations from the federal government or empowering LGAs to generate their own revenue streams, could foster greater financial independence and boost local governance.
Conclusion: A Crossroads for Rivers State
Rivers State stands at a critical juncture. The current standoff between Governor Fubara and the LGA Chairmen threatens to cripple local governance and destabilize the state. Open dialogue, adherence to due process, and a commitment to finding lasting solutions are essential to navigating this crisis.
The shadow of this conflict extends beyond Rivers State. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by local governments across Nigeria. A national discourse on strengthening local government autonomy and empowering them to serve their communities effectively is a necessity.
