Former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has described the resolution of the Senate to withhold statutory allocations to non-democratically elected local government council across the country as a step to uphold autonomy of the third tier of government.

Ortom stated this in a statement issued on Saturday and signed by his media aide, Terver Akase.

While applauding the Senate for its intervention, Ortom said that the Senate had demonstrated a firm stance against dictatorial tendencies.

Recall that the Senate, on Friday, while debating the motion raised by the Senate minority leader, Abba Moro, called for withholding of statutory allocations to non-democratically elected local government councils across the country.

The former governor described the intervention of the Senate as a significant move, which he said reflects a commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring the autonomy of local government administration across the country.

According to him, the unanimous resolution by the upper chamber of the National Assembly represents a crucial step in safeguarding the democratic process at the grassroots level.

The statement read In parts; “Chief Ortom says the Senate’s decision is a proactive measure which also has the potency to deter any act that undermines the democratic rights of citizens and the principles of good governance.”

By calling for the withholding of statutory allocations to non-democratically elected local government councils, the former Benue Governor states that the Senate has demonstrated a firm stance against dictatorial tendencies.

“He particularly commends Senator Abba Moro for his proactive motion which drew urgent attention to the issue of the unconstitutionally sacked local government councils in Benue State.” (Saturday Tribune)

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