By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Federal High Court in Lagos, Nigeria, on May 6, 2026, declared unlawful the National Assembly’s N110 billion expenditure on vehicles and allowances for lawmakers after a suit filed by SERAP. Justice Yellim Bogoro ruled that the spending violated procurement laws, constitutional provisions, and public accountability principles because lawmakers benefited directly from the allocation. The court held that the approval of N40 billion for vehicles and N70 billion for support allowances constituted self-dealing and conflict of interest following SERAP’s challenge against the budgetary allocation.
Court Nullifies N110 Billion National Assembly Spending
The Federal High Court sitting in Lagos voided the National Assembly’s controversial N110 billion expenditure. The funds covered vehicle procurement and lawmakers’ allowances. The court ruled that the spending breached due process and procurement standards.
Justice Yellim Bogoro stated that public office must serve citizens, not personal interests. She added that lawmakers cannot benefit directly from decisions on public funds.
SERAP Challenges National Assembly Budget
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) filed the case in 2023. It challenged plans to spend N40 billion on 465 bulletproof vehicles. It also questioned N70 billion in support allowances for new lawmakers.
SERAP argued that the spending violated the Public Procurement Act. The group also cited constitutional provisions and ethics rules for public officers.
Court Rejects Legislative Immunity Defence
The defendants argued that legislative autonomy blocked judicial interference. They also claimed the matter fell outside court jurisdiction.
However, Justice Bogoro rejected that argument. She ruled that separation of powers does not protect illegality. She stressed that courts can review public spending for legality.
Court Affirms SERAP’s Legal Standing
The court confirmed that SERAP had the right to sue. Justice Bogoro said public interest litigation is valid in Nigerian law.
She noted that civil society groups can challenge government actions. The judge also dismissed objections on pre-action notice and abuse of court process.
She explained that urgency and public interest justified the suit.
Findings on Procurement Breach and Conflict of Interest
The court found no evidence of proper procurement procedures. It also noted the absence of transparency in the spending process.
Justice Bogoro described the allocation as arbitrary and excessive. She added that lawmakers directly benefited from the expenditure.
The court ruled that this created a clear conflict of interest. It also violated procurement laws and ethical standards.
SERAP and Legal Experts React
SERAP welcomed the judgment as a victory for accountability. Its deputy director said the ruling reinforces public trust principles.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana also supported the decision. He urged stronger oversight of public remuneration systems.
They both emphasized responsible use of public funds during economic hardship.
Court Orders and Wider Implications
The court ordered the National Assembly leadership to ensure compliance with procurement laws. It directed strict adherence to transparency and value-for-money principles.
Justice Bogoro also highlighted Nigeria’s economic challenges. She said public spending must reflect national priorities and citizen welfare.
The ruling sets a precedent for stronger judicial oversight of legislative spending.
