… Rights group praises judgment as victory for accountability and constitutional governance
… CDHR commends SERAP for challenging lawmakers’ controversial expenditure
Olayinka Akinpelu
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has hailed a Federal High Court judgment declaring unlawful the controversial N110 billion expenditure by the National Assembly on vehicles and support allowances for lawmakers, describing the ruling as a major victory for transparency, accountability and constitutional governance in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday, the human rights organisation commended Justice Yellim Bogoro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, for delivering what it described as a courageous and historic judgment that reinforces the principle that no arm of government is above the law.
The court ruled against the expenditure following a suit instituted by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), which challenged the allocation and spending of the funds.
Reacting to the verdict, CDHR said the judgment represents a significant step towards strengthening public accountability and restoring citizens’ confidence in democratic institutions.
The organisation noted that the ruling reaffirmed the constitutional principle that public office holders must exercise their powers in the interest of the people and remain subject to public scrutiny.
According to the group, the court’s position that legislative autonomy cannot be used as a shield for illegality or abuse of public trust sends a strong message to public institutions across the country.
CDHR also welcomed the court’s recognition of the economic realities facing Nigerians, arguing that public resources should be utilised in a manner that reflects the welfare needs and priorities of citizens.
The rights group observed that millions of Nigerians continue to struggle with inflation, unemployment and declining living standards, making the allocation of N110 billion for the direct benefit of lawmakers a matter deserving of constitutional examination.
The organisation further praised SERAP for pursuing the legal challenge, describing the suit as another demonstration of the critical role civil society organisations play in promoting accountability and democratic governance.
CDHR said the court’s affirmation of SERAP’s legal standing to institute the action would strengthen public interest litigation in Nigeria and encourage more citizens and advocacy groups to challenge actions capable of undermining public welfare and constitutional order.
The group also commended Justice Bogoro for affirming that public procurement involving government funds must comply with the Public Procurement Act, the Code of Conduct for Public Officers and the Constitution.
According to CDHR, the court’s finding that the expenditure amounted to self-dealing and a conflict of interest reinforces the need for integrity, transparency and value for money in the management of public resources.
The organisation urged the leadership of the National Assembly to comply fully with the judgment and embrace greater openness and accountability in the discharge of its responsibilities.
It also called on public office holders at all levels of government to regard the ruling as a reminder that constitutional powers must always be exercised in the interest of the people.
Describing the verdict as a beacon of hope for Nigerians seeking responsible governance and fiscal discipline, CDHR said the judgment was not only a victory for SERAP but also for all citizens committed to justice, accountability and the rule of law.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting lawful initiatives aimed at promoting good governance, protecting human rights and ensuring that public institutions serve the interests of the people rather than personal or political interests.
