The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has praised the Federal High Court judgment declaring the National Assembly’s controversial ₦110 billion expenditure on vehicles and lawmakers’ allowances unlawful, describing the ruling as a major victory for accountability, transparency, and constitutional democracy.
In a statement jointly signed by its National President, Comrade Yinka Folarin, and National Secretary, Comrade Idris Afeez Olayinka, the rights group commended Justice Yellim Bogoro for what it described as a courageous and historic decision that reinforces the principle that no arm of government is above the law.
According to the organisation, the judgment serves as a strong reminder that public office is a trust that must be exercised in the interest of citizens rather than for personal or political gain.
“No arm of government, regardless of its constitutional status, is above the law or exempt from public scrutiny,” the group stated.
CDHR particularly applauded the court for rejecting arguments that legislative autonomy could shield public officials from scrutiny, stressing that constitutional powers must always be exercised within the limits of the law.
The organisation noted that the judgment rightly recognised the economic realities facing millions of Nigerians and questioned the justification for spending ₦110 billion on lawmakers’ welfare at a time when citizens are struggling with rising inflation, unemployment, and declining living standards.
According to the group, the ruling demonstrates that public resources must be managed responsibly and directed toward priorities that improve the welfare of the people.
CDHR also commended the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) for pursuing the case, describing the organisation’s legal action as another demonstration of the crucial role civil society groups play in promoting accountability and defending the public interest.
The rights group praised the court for affirming SERAP’s legal standing to institute the case, saying the decision strengthens public-interest litigation and encourages citizens and organisations to challenge actions that threaten transparency and good governance.
The committee further welcomed the court’s finding that the expenditure amounted to self-dealing and conflict of interest, noting that the judgment sends a clear message to public office holders that integrity, transparency, and value for money must guide all government spending.
“Public institutions must always be guided by integrity, transparency, and value for money,” the statement said.
CDHR urged the leadership of the National Assembly to fully comply with the judgment and embrace greater openness and accountability in the management of public resources.
The organisation also called on public officials across the country to view the ruling as a timely reminder that constitutional powers must always be exercised in the best interest of the people.
Describing the judgment as a beacon of hope for Nigerians seeking responsible governance and fiscal discipline, CDHR said the ruling represents a victory not only for SERAP but for every citizen committed to justice, accountability, and democratic governance.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting lawful efforts aimed at promoting good governance, protecting human rights, and ensuring that public institutions serve the people rather than narrow personal interests.
“This judgment is a victory for every Nigerian who believes in justice, accountability, and the rule of law,” CDHR added.
Source: Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR).
