Nigeria: States defy court on LG funds, minister's residence nurse death sparks autopsy row, Gbajabiamila sues over kickback claims

Nigeria's local governments are still struggling for financial autonomy, a year after the Supreme Court ordered direct payment of federal allocations. Findings reveal that states have retained control of approximately N10.48 trillion in council funds between July 2024 and June 2026, with little evidence of grassroots financial independence. The National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) reports that direct payments from the Federal Government have not begun, highlighting a continued defiance of the court's landmark ruling.

“

The PUNCH findings show that local governments received N10.48tn between July 2024 and June 2026, yet implementation remains stalled with little evidence of financial autonomy at the grassroots.

The nation is also grappling with the controversial death of a 26-year-old nurse, Mary Habila, whose body was found at the residence of the Minister of Works, David Umahi. While the minister and the Ebonyi State Police Command are pushing for an autopsy to determine the cause of death, the deceased's father has requested the withdrawal of the police investigation and refused an autopsy, stating the family suspects no foul play. This situation has created a legal and ethical standoff.

In a separate development, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, has initiated a N15 billion defamation lawsuit against Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi. The suit stems from allegations that Gbajabiamila demanded a 48% kickback from a N27.3 billion grant. Gbajabiamila vehemently denies these claims, asserting he has never met Adeyemi or authorized any intermediaries, and is seeking substantial damages, a retraction of the statements, and a public apology.

“

The Minister of Works, David Umahi and the Ebonyi State Police Command have demanded an autopsy to unravel the circumstances that led to the death of a 26-year-old nurse, Mary Habila, whose corpse was reportedly found at the minister’s residence in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is exploring measures to bolster preparations for the 2027 general election. The commission is considering a thorough audit of its electoral technology systems and plans to conduct a mock presidential election to refine its processes.

“

Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila has filed a N15bn defamation suit against Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi over allegations that he demanded a 48% kickback from a N27.3bn take-off grant.