The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has welcomed a recent judgment by the Federal High Court in Abuja nullifying the National Assembly’s N110 billion allocation for sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and lawmakers’ allowances.
Justice Yellim Bogoro, who delivered the judgment, ruled against the expenditure, a decision that has drawn widespread reactions from civil society groups, legal practitioners, and members of the public.
SERAP, which instituted the suit, described the ruling as a major victory for transparency and accountability in public service. The organisation subsequently called on the leadership of the National Assembly to comply fully with the court’s decision.
Prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), also commended the judgment, stating that public officials must demonstrate prudence in the use of public funds, particularly amid prevailing economic challenges facing Nigerians.
The ruling has generated significant discussion on social media, with many Nigerians expressing support for the court’s position. Several commentators described the verdict as an important step toward strengthening accountability and reinforcing the rule of law.
Justice Bogoro held that public procurement processes involving government funds must comply with the provisions of the Constitution, the Public Procurement Act, and the Code of Conduct for Public Officers.
While many stakeholders welcomed the judgment, some observers raised concerns that the decision came after the funds had reportedly been disbursed and expended. They have called on relevant anti-corruption agencies to further examine the procurement process and ensure compliance with established regulations.