President Bola Tinubu’s push for full financial autonomy for Nigeria’s 774 local governments has been described as one of the most important governance reforms in recent years. The Supreme Court ruling of July 2024 declared that local government funds must go directly to councils and not pass through state governments. The aim is to strengthen grassroots development, improve accountability and allow local communities benefit directly from public resources meant for them.

However, implementation of the ruling has remained slow and controversial. While the Federal Government continues to call for compliance, many states are yet to fully adjust their systems. This has created debates around whether governors are genuinely prepared to surrender control over local government finances and administration, or whether political interests are slowing down the process.

In Ogun State, attention has been drawn to Governor Dapo Abiodun’s recent presentation of official vehicles to local government chairmen. Supporters say it is a move to support effective administration, while critics argue that such gestures highlight the continued dependence of councils on state governments, which runs against the spirit of local government autonomy. The situation has sparked conversations on whether states are aligning with the new constitutional direction or merely adjusting appearances.

Analysts say the success of local government autonomy will depend on political will at both federal and state levels. Without full implementation, the reform risks remaining only a legal victory rather than a practical one. For the policy to truly benefit communities, states must respect the Supreme Court ruling and allow councils operate independently, transparently and responsibly for improved service delivery nationwide.