By Our Reporter
The Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has declared unlawful the controversial N110 billion expenditure by the National Assembly on vehicles and support allowances for lawmakers, describing the spending as a violation of procurement regulations, constitutional provisions, and public trust.
In its judgment, the court nullified the allocation of N40 billion for the purchase of 465 vehicles for members of the National Assembly as well as the N70 billion earmarked as support allowances for newly elected legislators.
The court held that the expenditures failed to comply with established procurement laws and due process requirements governing the use of public funds.
The ruling marks a significant development in the quest for accountability and transparency in public financial management, as concerns had been raised by civil society groups and members of the public over the legitimacy of the allocations amid prevailing economic challenges in the country.
In addition to voiding the expenditures, the court directed the leadership of the National Assembly to ensure strict adherence to due process in future spending.
Specifically, the court ordered the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, to ensure that all future procurements and expenditures undertaken by the National Assembly conform with legal requirements and principles of good governance.
The court further emphasized that all public spending by the legislature must be guided by transparency, accountability, value for money, and strict compliance with procurement laws.
Legal observers believe the judgment reinforces the judiciary’s role in safeguarding public resources and promoting responsible governance, while sending a strong message on the need for prudent management of taxpayers’ funds by public institutions.
