Court Declares National Assembly’s N110bn SUV, Allowance Spending Unlawful
A Federal High Court in Lagos has declared the National Assembly’s expenditure of N110 billion on sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and lawmakers’ allowances unlawful, citing violations of public procurement regulations and constitutional provisions governing public spending.
In its judgment, the court held that the expenditure failed to comply with established procurement procedures and lacked the necessary legal framework required for the disbursement of public funds.
The case, which challenged the legality of the spending, questioned whether due process was followed in approving and executing the procurement of vehicles and the payment of certain allowances to members of the National Assembly.
According to the court, public institutions are required to adhere strictly to procurement laws designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and value for money in the management of public resources.
Legal experts say the ruling underscores the judiciary’s role in promoting fiscal responsibility and enforcing compliance with laws governing government expenditure.
The judgment has generated reactions from civil society organisations and transparency advocates, many of whom described it as a significant step toward strengthening accountability in public finance management.
Observers note that the ruling could have broader implications for how public institutions handle procurement processes and budgetary expenditures in the future.
The National Assembly is yet to issue an official response to the court’s decision.
