Four Major Supreme Court Rulings That Shaped Nigeria in Early 2024

Key Supreme Court rulings from H1 2024 redefined governance, financial autonomy, and election integrity in Nigeria.

In the first half of 2024, Supreme Court rulings in 2024 played a crucial role in reshaping Nigeria’s legal, political, and governance landscape. These pivotal decisions ranged from establishing the authority over Lagos’ waterways to strengthening local government financial autonomy and reaffirming electoral victories. Below are four key rulings from the Supreme Court in early 2024.

1. Supreme Court’s Decision on Lagos Inland Waterways

One of the most significant Supreme Court rulings in 2024 came on January 5, resolving a longstanding dispute between the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA). The court ruled that the National Assembly holds exclusive legislative powers over inland waterways, including those in Lagos. This decision invalidated conflicting Lagos State laws, reaffirming that NIWA has regulatory control over these areas.

2. Financial Autonomy for Local Governments

A major Supreme Court ruling in 2024 focused on the financial independence of Nigeria’s local governments. In June, the court ruled that federal allocations meant for local councils must be paid directly to them, bypassing state governors. This decision was a victory for local government autonomy and curbed the misuse of funds by state authorities.

3. The Conviction of Francis Atuche

Another impactful Supreme Court ruling in 2024 came in June when the court upheld the conviction of Francis Atuche, former managing director of Bank PHB, in a multi-billion naira fraud case. By dismissing Atuche’s appeal, the court finalized his six-year prison sentence, concluding a legal battle that had spanned over a decade.

4. Rulings on Governorship Elections

Several Supreme Court rulings in 2024 reaffirmed the election outcomes from the 2023 governorship races. The court upheld the re-election of Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State in August, dismissing challenges by opposition candidates. Similar rulings confirmed the victories of governors in other states like Enugu, Ebonyi, and Delta, solidifying the legitimacy of their electoral victories.

These Supreme Court rulings in 2024 have left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s governance and legal framework, setting important precedents for financial management and electoral processes across the country.