A former member of the House of Representatives, Sam Onuigbo, has commended Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, for directing that local government funds from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee be paid directly to councils in the state. The directive affects all twenty seven local government areas in Borno and is aimed at strengthening transparency and promoting grassroots development.
Governor Zulum explained that the decision would empower local government chairpersons to take responsibility for development projects at the community level while ensuring accountability in the management of public funds. The move has been widely praised as a step toward strengthening democratic governance at the grassroots.
Reacting in a statement he personally signed and made available to the media on Tuesday, Onuigbo described the governor’s action as courageous and purposeful. He said the directive aligns with constitutional provisions, democratic principles and the overall interest of the people.
The former lawmaker, who is also a member of the Governing Board of the North East Development Commission, noted that the policy sets a strong example for other state governors to follow. According to him, direct funding of councils will enhance the effectiveness of President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda at the grassroots level.
Onuigbo added that history would remember Governor Zulum’s decision as a symbol of transparency and ethical leadership. He said the governor’s insistence on routing local government funds directly to council treasuries restores hope in Nigeria and supports the argument that excessive state control of council finances weakens democracy.
He recalled his long standing advocacy for local government financial autonomy, stating that it came at significant personal and political cost. Drawing from his experience as a former commissioner, he explained that councils often struggle to carry out their constitutional duties due to financial constraints.
Onuigbo urged local government chairpersons in Borno State to seize the opportunity to address insecurity, unemployment and youth related social challenges. He also referenced President Tinubu’s call on governors to allow resources to reach the grassroots, stressing that democratic dividends can only be achieved when all tiers of government perform their assigned roles.
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