Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, Special Adviser to Governor Soludo on Political Matters, has defended the recently passed Anambra State Local Government Administration Bill, dismissing media reports that claim the state government is circumventing a Supreme Court ruling. According to Dr. Obiogbolu, the law is designed to serve the people’s interests.
Speaking during a press conference at the Government House in Awka, Dr. Obiogbolu described the circulating reports as misleading, affirming that the Anambra State government does not have direct access to local government funds. He clarified that the bill ensures that the local government consolidated account will be managed by a body including local government mayors, the accountant general of the local government, three local government chairmen, the commissioner for local government affairs, the Chairman of ASUBEB, and the Executive Secretary of the Local Government Staff Pensions Board.
He further explained that the law ensures the provision of essential services such as salary payments, allowances, pensions, and gratuities for local government workers and retirees. It also covers the maintenance of primary, adult, and vocational education, as well as primary health services, which are key components of the local government’s responsibilities.
Dr. Obiogbolu urged the public and media to thoroughly review the bill before drawing conclusions. He emphasized that opposition to the bill is largely driven by those seeking to return to the days of unpaid arrears, which plagued the state’s past. He assured that Governor Soludo remains committed to creating a livable and prosperous state for Anambra’s residents.
He concluded by calling on Ndi Anambra to continue supporting the state government in its efforts to improve governance.
