The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a stern warning to local government chairmen, emphasizing that they do not possess immunity from prosecution and will face legal consequences if found mismanaging public funds. This warning comes in the wake of the Supreme Court's July 11, 2024, judgment granting financial autonomy to Nigeria's 774 local governments. The EFCC has pledged to closely monitor local government activities to ensure accountability and transparency at the grassroots level. 

Similarly, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has cautioned local council chairmen against embezzling public funds, highlighting that unlike state governors, they do not enjoy immunity from prosecution. He stated that any governor who interferes with local government finances commits gross misconduct, an impeachable offense. Fagbemi urged local government officials to prioritize their constitutional duties, emphasizing that misuse of public funds would lead to imprisonment. 

These developments underscore the federal government's commitment to enforcing financial autonomy for local governments and ensuring that funds allocated for grassroots development are used appropriately.