CDHR praises court ruling and SERAP’s lawsuit over N110 bn SUV and allowance spending.

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has praised the Federal High Court in Lagos for its ruling by Justice Yellim Bogoro, which declared the National Assembly’s ₦110 billion spend on vehicles and support allowances for lawmakers unlawful.

The judgment is described as a milestone for constitutionalism, transparency, and accountability, affirming that no branch of government is above the law or immune from public scrutiny.

In a statement released Sunday and signed by National President Comrade Yinka Folarin and National Secretary Comrade Idris Afeez Olayinka, the CDHR highlighted the court’s assertion that legislative autonomy cannot shield illegal or abusive actions that contravene constitutional duties to citizens. The ruling reinforces that public office is a trust and that office‑holders must act in the public interest.

The committee also commended the court for acknowledging the economic hardships faced by millions of Nigerians, noting that public resources should reflect the priorities and welfare of the people. With inflation, unemployment, and declining living standards, the allocation of ₦110 billion for lawmakers’ direct benefit was rightly subjected to strict constitutional review.

CDHR further praised the Socio‑Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) for its steadfast commitment to public‑interest litigation and accountability in governance. The court’s affirmation of SERAP’s locus standi strengthens the jurisprudence on public‑interest litigation in Nigeria and encourages civil society to challenge actions that threaten public welfare.

The judge was commended for insisting that procurement involving public funds must comply with the Public Procurement Act, the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The court’s finding that the expenditure constituted self‑dealing and a conflict of interest sends a clear message that public institutions must be guided by integrity, transparency, and value for money.

Moving forward, the CDHR urges the National Assembly leadership to fully comply with the judgment and to adopt a culture of openness, accountability, and prudent management of public resources. All public office holders across the federation should view this judgment as a reminder that constitutional powers must serve the people’s absolute interest.

The ruling is seen as a beacon of hope for Nigerians demanding responsible governance, fiscal discipline, and respect for the rule of law. It is a victory for SERAP and for all Nigerians committed to justice, accountability, and democratic governance. The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights remains dedicated to supporting lawful efforts that promote good governance, protect human rights, and ensure that public institutions serve the populace rather than narrow personal or political interests.

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