The Peoples Democratic Party’s Cross River State Chapter has strongly criticized the hasty passage of the Local Government Amendment Bill 2025 by Governor Bassey Otu and the state House of Assembly. The opposition party denounced the new law, citing it as a direct violation of the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy. They claimed the amendment was a ploy to manipulate and misuse local government funds. The PDP highlighted concerns about increased financial burdens on the 18 Local Government Areas due to provisions like expanding political appointees and various deductions. They condemned the unauthorized deductions for oversight functions, community development, university funding, and other entities, arguing that these responsibilities should fall under the state government. The PDP expressed strong opposition to the law, accusing it of being a tactic to divert funds for political gain. They vowed to resist the legislation through legal and democratic channels, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding democracy and promoting grassroots development. The party criticized the bill as a strategy by the APC-led administration to exploit resources intended for local development. Governor Otu signed the amended law on Monday, claiming it would benefit grassroots development.
C’River PDP tackles Otu, says new LG law undermines autonomy
