The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights has hailed the judgment of the Federal High Court in Lagos which declared unlawful the N110bn expenditure by the National Assembly on vehicles and support allowances for lawmakers.
Justice Yellim Bogoro, who delivered the ruling, held that the controversial spending failed to meet constitutional and statutory requirements governing the use of public funds.
Reacting to the verdict, the group described the decision as a “landmark victory” for accountability, transparency and the rule of law.
In a statement jointly signed by its National President, Comrade Yinka Folarin, and National Secretary, Comrade Idris Afeez Olayinka, the organisation said the judgment reaffirmed that no arm of government is above the law.
The group noted that the court’s position sends a strong signal that legislative autonomy cannot be used to justify actions that undermine public trust or violate existing laws.
According to the CDHR, the ruling comes at a critical time when many Nigerians are battling economic hardship, rising inflation and unemployment, stressing that public resources must reflect the welfare and priorities of citizens.
The organisation also commended the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project for instituting the suit, describing the move as a demonstration of the vital role of civil society in promoting accountability and good governance.
It added that the court’s recognition of SERAP’s locus standi would further strengthen public interest litigation and encourage citizens to challenge actions capable of undermining constitutional governance.
The rights group further praised the court for affirming that procurement processes involving public funds must strictly comply with relevant laws, including the Public Procurement Act and the Code of Conduct for Public Officers.
It said the court’s finding that the expenditure amounted to self-dealing and conflict of interest underscores the need for integrity and transparency in public service.
The CDHR, however, urged the leadership of the National Assembly to comply fully with the judgment and adopt prudent management of public resources.
It also called on public office holders across the country to take the ruling as a reminder that constitutional powers must be exercised in the interest of the people.
“The judgment represents a beacon of hope for Nigerians seeking responsible governance and fiscal discipline,” the statement added.
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