By Bilesanmi Abayomi
A non-governmental organization, Ta’awun Political Forum, has expressed support for Alimosho Local Government Chairman, Hon. Sulaimon Jelili, who is challenging his suspension by the Lagos State House of Assembly at the Supreme Court.
READ MORE: LG Autonomy: Alimosho Council sues Lagos Assembly, alleges unlawful interference
Speaking on Tuesday in response to a litigation report posted by KosofePost, Taiwo Lasisi, President of the NGO, commended Jelili’s constitutional approach in addressing what he called an “unconstitutional” suspension. Jelili was suspended by the state assembly, but he has taken the legal route to contest the decision.
Lasisi highlighted the significance of this case in light of the ongoing efforts to grant full autonomy to local governments. He described the suspension as a reflection of the power imbalance between state and local governments, which often leaves local leaders vulnerable to state interference.
“Once the law granting full autonomy to local governments is passed, any unconstitutional state intervention in local affairs will be a thing of the past,” Lasisi said. However, he warned that autonomy must come with safeguards, cautioning that unchecked local government leaders could abuse their powers.
While praising the KosofePost for reporting on the matter, Lasisi urged for strong constitutional provisions to prevent future misuse of power by local government officials if autonomy is fully realized.