Judiciary
A Federal High Court in Lagos has declared the National Assembly’s proposed N110 billion vehicle and allowance package unlawful.
Justice Yellim Bogoro delivered the judgment in a suit filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).
The court held that the planned N40 billion expenditure on vehicles and N70 billion support allowances breached procurement and constitutional provisions.
Bogoro ruled that the National Assembly leadership failed to provide evidence of compliance with procurement procedures and value-for-money requirements.
She described the expenditure as arbitrary, disproportionate and inconsistent with statutory procurement standards.
The judge said the arrangement amounted to self-dealing because beneficiaries were also responsible for approving the expenditure.
According to the court, legislative autonomy cannot be used to shield unlawful actions from judicial scrutiny.
Bogoro ordered Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to ensure future spending complies with due process rules.
The court also cited prevailing economic hardship, saying public spending must reflect national priorities and public interest.
SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare described the judgment as a victory for transparency and accountability.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) said the ruling highlighted concerns over public officials’ spending amid widespread poverty.
The judgment is expected to intensify calls for greater accountability in the management of public resources.
F.O
Tags: Court National Assembly