A Federal High Court in Lagos has declared the National Assembly’s N110 billion scheme for luxury SUVs and allowances unlawful.

Justice Yellim Bogoro delivered the judgment, holding that the N40 billion planned for 465 bulletproof vehicles and N70 billion for support allowances breached procurement laws and the Constitution.

The court said the spending lacked proper approval and transparency.

The case was brought by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. Justice Bogoro noted that the huge expenditure on vehicles costing about N305 million each showed self-dealing and conflict of interest. She stressed that such spending failed to consider the economic hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians.

The judge ordered Senate President, Mr Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of House of Representatives, Mr Tajudeen Abbas to ensure all future spending of public funds follows due process, transparency, and value for money. She described the scheme as arbitrary and inconsistent with public trust. The ruling highlighted that public office should not be used for personal benefits at the expense of the people.

Many Nigerians have welcomed the decision, seeing it as a victory for accountability in government. The judgment came amid public anger over the planned luxury purchases during tough economic times. Legal experts say it sets an important example for how lawmakers should handle public money.

As the National Assembly considers its next steps, possibly including an appeal, the ruling serves as a strong reminder. Public funds must be spent wisely and in line with the law. This landmark decision by Justice Yellim Bogoro could lead to better oversight and fairness in government spending going forward.