The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees NULGE in Kebbi State, has called for changes in the 1999 Constitution that would guarantee autonomy to local government councils.

Chairman, of the state chapter of NULGE Alhaji Lawali Na-Allah, made the call while addressing a rally in Birnin Kebbi last week.

He said sections 7 and 162 of the 1999 Constitution had denied local governments financial autonomy, thereby retarding socio-economic development in the local government areas (LGAs).

He said the councils required full control of their federal allocation, instead of the current practice whereby state governments determined the release of the funds.

He said the 30 per cent allocation to local governments was inadequate for growth in the LGAs.

Alhaji Na-Allah said direct funding of the councils would enable them to strengthen traditional institutions,

protect culture, enhance participatory democracy, social mobilisation and information dissemination.

He also called for the funding of primary education by state governments rather than compelling

local governments to do so.

He suggested that a law should be enacted to prohibit individuals and governments from tampering with council allocations. (NAN)