The Senate has requested that the Federal Government withhold statutory funds from any local government councils that were not properly elected.
The upper house unanimously agreed that this action would dissuade any state Governor’s totalitarian tendencies.
This resolution follows Sen. Abba Moro’s motion on the urgent need to prevent the erosion of democracy in Benue State through the dissolution of elected councils.
The lawmakers contended that the use of Caretaker Committees to substitute Elected Councils is an anomaly, undemocratic, and a violation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s (as amended) constitution.
Senator Victor Umeh (representing Anambra Senatorial District), who seconded the resolution, expressed regret that the issue has continued to damage Nigeria’s local government system.
As a result, the Senate denounced the arbitrary dissolution of democratically elected local government councils in Benue and other federation states.
They asked Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia to uphold his oath of office, examine the constitution of caretaker committees, and reinstall the elected councils.
The Senate discussion on the merits and general principles of the 2024 appropriation bill continues.
