LG Autonomy: The Challenge I Envisage Is How Primary School Teachers Can Be Paid Promptly – Umo Eno

The Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno, has expressed his relief and support for the Supreme Court’s recent verdict granting financial autonomy to Local Government Areas (LGAs).

According to the report by The Cable on Tuesday, the apex court had ruled that the federal government must pay allocations directly to LG councils, citing the abuse of power by state governments in retaining and using funds meant for LGAs.

Governor Eno welcomed the decision, expressing concerns about its effective implementation and the capacity of LGAs to manage their financial responsibilities.

He said that he feels relieved with the verdict, and added that his concern is how the council authorities will bear the brunt of the economy.

He pointed out the challenges in paying primary school teachers promptly and clearing the backlog of unpaid salaries.

The governor assured that his administration has not diverted funds meant for LGAs and has instead channelled resources into offsetting arrears of gratuities, pensions, and salaries and other entitlements of local government workers.

He expressed hopes that under the new arrangement, LGAs will take over the responsibility of paying salaries of teachers, health workers, and other personnel.

Speaking on Tuesday during an interactive session with journalists, Governor Eno said, “The recent decision of the apex court is a welcome development. It is also a huge relief to state governments.

“My concern is its effective implementation and the ability of local governments to handle their financial responsibilities.

“The challenge I envisage now is how primary school teachers can be paid promptly. How do we even clear the backlog that we have?…..See_More