A pro-democracy group has cautioned civil society organisations against what it described as attempts to undermine the National Assembly over the controversial N110 billion spent on vehicle procurement and support allowances for lawmakers in 2023.
The Advocates of Social Justice for All (ASJA) issued the warning two weeks after a Federal High Court in Lagos declared the expenditure unlawful. Justice Yellim Bogoro had ruled that N40 billion used to procure 469 SUVs for members of both chambers, and N70 billion in support allowances for incoming 10th Assembly members, did not comply with procurement laws. The court ordered Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to ensure all future expenditure of public funds adheres strictly to due process, transparency, and value-for-money principles.
Following the judgment, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), which brought the case, called on lawmakers to refund the full N110 billion to government coffers.
ASJA pushed back against that position, arguing through its Executive Director, Dr. Torkuma Asongo, that the ruling raises significant constitutional questions about the operational autonomy of the legislature. The group maintained that the National Assembly, as an independent arm of government, has constitutional authority to make budgetary provisions necessary for carrying out its legislative responsibilities.
“Official vehicles for lawmakers should be regarded as essential tools for legislative work rather than luxury items,” the group’s statement read, adding that legislators require adequate operational support to fulfil oversight functions, constituency engagements, and committee assignments across the country.
ASJA described SERAP’s refund demand as premature and potentially capable of generating unnecessary institutional tension, arguing that concerned parties should allow the judicial process, including any appellate proceedings, to run its full course.
The group also invoked the doctrine of separation of powers, warning against actions that could erode the independence of the legislature. “While accountability and transparency remain essential, care must be taken to ensure that the constitutional independence of the legislature is not eroded through undue interference or public sensationalism,” it stated.
ASJA urged stakeholders to approach matters concerning the National Assembly with objectivity and restraint, cautioning that sustained efforts to delegitimise parliament could weaken democratic institutions and diminish public confidence in governance.
