President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern warning to the governors of Nigeria's 36 states, threatening to use an executive order to ensure direct financial allocation to local government councils. This move comes in response to the governors' perceived reluctance to comply with a landmark Supreme Court judgment affirming financial autonomy for the third tier of government.
The Presidential Ultimatum at APC NEC Meeting
The president delivered this strong message on Friday, December 19, 2025, during the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The gathering took place at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja and was attended by state governors, members of the National Working Committee, and other prominent party leaders.
In a direct address that left little room for ambiguity, President Tinubu referenced the Supreme Court's clear position. He cautioned that if the governors continued to withhold statutory allocations meant for local governments, he would be compelled to intervene decisively.
"I Have the Knife and the Yam" - Tinubu's Stern Warning
Using vivid local imagery to underscore his point, the President stated: "The Supreme Court has capped it for you again, saying, 'give them their money directly.' If you wait for my Executive Order, because I have the knife, I have the yam, I will cut it."
This statement implies that the Presidency possesses both the authority (the knife) and the resources (the yam) to enforce compliance. The proposed executive order would mandate the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) to bypass state government accounts and send funds directly to the coffers of local government councils.
Public Reactions and the Road Ahead
A video of the President's address quickly circulated online, sparking diverse reactions from Nigerians. Many citizens welcomed the firm stance, seeing it as a crucial step towards actualizing grassroots development.
Fisayo Ademuwagun praised the move, stating local government autonomy "will happen whether governors like it or not." Adebanji supported the President's position, noting that "governors delaying or blocking it are acting in bad faith."
However, other commentators raised valid concerns about accountability. Babajide Blunt questioned, "Who will be assessing their projects and the quality of delivery?" highlighting the need for robust oversight mechanisms once funds flow directly. Another user, Kelly, predicted fierce pushback and potential legal battles from governors unwilling to relinquish control over these significant resources.
This development marks a critical juncture in Nigeria's ongoing struggle for true federalism and grassroots empowerment. The President's threat sets the stage for a potential constitutional and political showdown between the federal and state executives over the control of local government finances.
