President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has openly acknowledged that his rise to Nigeria’s highest political office was not an easy journey, stressing that his eventual success was made possible through persistence, resilience, and the guidance of God. Addressing party leaders during the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held in Abuja on Friday, the President reflected on the demanding road that led to the 2023 general election. He described the period as one filled with intense pressure, uncertainty, and obstacles that tested both his political ambition and the endurance of Nigerians nationwide. According to Tinubu, the campaign season coincided with a particularly difficult chapter in Nigeria’s recent history. Citizens were confronted with harsh economic realities and social disruptions that affected daily life across the country. These challenges included widespread food shortages, the controversial currency redesign policy, and a prolonged fuel scarcity that left many Nigerians stranded in long queues at petrol stations. The President emphasized that these combined pressures created an atmosphere of frustration and hardship, making the election period one of the most trying moments for the nation. Despite these circumstances, he noted that perseverance remained essential, and faith played a central role in sustaining hope through the uncertainty. Tinubu’s remarks underscored his belief that leadership is often forged in moments of adversity. He maintained that overcoming such a turbulent path reinforced his conviction that divine intervention and unwavering determination were critical factors in achieving his presidential mandate.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a firm warning to state governors across Nigeria, stating that he may resort to issuing an Executive Order to guarantee the direct release of funds to local government councils if state authorities fail to respect the recent Supreme Court ruling on local government financial autonomy. The President made this position clear on Friday while addressing participants at the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The meeting took place at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, bringing together key party leaders and stakeholders. According to President Tinubu, the Supreme Court judgment granting financial independence to local governments must not remain symbolic. He emphasized that for autonomy at the grassroots level to have real impact, it must be supported by unrestricted access to statutory allocations meant for local councils. While reflecting on discussions held a day earlier during the 14th APC National Caucus meeting, the President noted that he had already drawn attention to the importance of enforcing local government autonomy. He stressed that without direct funding, local councils would remain unable to perform their constitutional responsibilities effectively. President Tinubu’s remarks suggest growing concern within the Federal Government that some state administrations may delay or resist implementing the court’s decision. He indicated that if such resistance continues, the Federal Government may be compelled to take decisive action to ensure compliance. By referencing the possibility of an Executive Order, the President signaled that enforcement mechanisms remain available to the presidency, especially where constitutional provisions and judicial pronouncements are not being fully respected. The warning serves as a reminder that the Supreme Court ruling on local government financial autonomy is binding and that meaningful governance at the grassroots level depends on unhindered access to allocated funds.
