We Saw It Coming: How Rivers State Prepared for Local Government Allocation Freeze
The Rivers State government has reacted to the federal decision to freeze local government allocations in the state, stating that it was an anticipated development.
The freeze comes amid ongoing disputes over the alleged mismanagement of local government funds and federal oversight in the state.
Rivers State officials expressed disappointment, highlighting that this decision affects the development of local government areas and hinders their ability to pay salaries, fund community projects, and maintain basic infrastructure.
The government stressed that the freeze could exacerbate socioeconomic challenges within the state and disproportionately impact local communities reliant on government funding.
The state government also hinted that it may explore legal options to address what it considers an overreach by federal authorities, with claims that this action undermines Rivers’ autonomy in managing its own affairs.
This response reflects underlying tensions between state and federal authorities regarding the control and allocation of resources, especially given Rivers’ oil-rich status and its contributions to Nigeria’s national revenue.