A Federal High Court has declared the National Assembly’s N110 billion vehicle procurement and allowance scheme unlawful, ruling that it violated provisions of the Public Procurement Act.
In a judgment delivered on Monday, the court held that the approval and implementation of the scheme failed to comply with established procurement procedures designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and value for public funds.
The case, instituted by a public interest group challenging the legality of the expenditure, questioned the process through which funds were allocated for vehicle purchases and related allowances for lawmakers.
The court ruled that public institutions, including the National Assembly, are bound by the provisions of the Public Procurement Act and must adhere strictly to due process in the award and execution of contracts.
According to the judgment, any expenditure involving public resources must be subjected to competitive bidding and other statutory requirements to guarantee fairness and prudent management of government funds.
The court consequently nullified the scheme and directed the relevant authorities to ensure compliance with procurement laws in future transactions involving public funds.
The ruling is expected to reignite debate over government spending, fiscal responsibility, and accountability in the management of public resources.
Legal analysts say the judgment reinforces the principle that no government institution is above the law and underscores the need for greater transparency in public procurement processes across the country.
