Abia Government Dismisses NLC’s Allegations on LG Funds Bill as Baseless

The Abia State Government has refuted claims made by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) regarding a purported bill aimed at ceding 90% of local government funds to the state, leaving the LGAs with only 10%.

The allegations were contained in a letter jointly signed by the NLC’s state chairman and secretary, and addressed to the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly.

In a statement signed by Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, the government described the NLC’s claims as “disrespectful and baseless.”

“At no time did the executive arm of government send any bill to the House of Assembly seeking to take 90% of LGA allocations,” the statement read.

Ekeoma challenged the NLC leadership to provide documentary evidence to support its allegations, suggesting that the union may have fallen victim to misinformation.

“We urge the NLC to produce evidence if they have any, rather than acting on mischievous and unfounded rumours spread by opposition elements,” he said.

The government questioned the NLC’s approach, saying, “Wouldn’t it have been more appropriate for a reputable body like the NLC to seek clarification from the House of Assembly instead of rushing to the media to misinform the public?”

Ekeoma also referenced a recent statement from the Deputy Speaker of the House, Austin Okezie, who had dismissed the speculation earlier in the week.

The state government cautioned the NLC against what it termed “unprovoked hostility” based on unfounded rumours, urging the union to adopt a more cautious and informed approach.