Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the leadership of the National Assembly to recover and return N110 billion allegedly spent unlawfully on lawmakers’ vehicles and support allowances, following a Federal High Court judgment that declared the expenditures illegal.
In a letter dated June 20, 2026, SERAP asked the National Assembly to comply with the implications of the court ruling delivered by Justice Yellim Bogoro in Lagos in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/1606/2023.
The court found that the expenditure of N40 billion on 465 vehicles for lawmakers and N70 billion in support allowances for newly elected members breached procurement laws, constitutional obligations and public trust.
SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, who signed the letter, said the judgment requires immediate accountability and restitution.
“Flowing from Justice Bogoro’s judgment, there must be consequences and full restitution for the lawmakers’ failure to comply with their constitutional and statutory obligations, particularly in relation to the unlawful expenditure of the N110 billion, as found by the Court,” the organisation said.
The group argued that allowing lawmakers to retain benefits arising from the expenditure would undermine constitutional principles and public confidence in democratic institutions.
“Allowing lawmakers to retain benefits derived from unlawful and unconstitutional expenditure would be entirely inconsistent with the constitutional duty to abolish corrupt practices and abuse of power,” SERAP said.
Although the court did not expressly order a refund, SERAP maintained that the judgment provides sufficient legal grounds for the recovery of the money.
“Restitution is necessary to uphold the rule of law, restore public trust, and ensure accountability for violations of constitutional and statutory duties,” the organisation stated.
SERAP also called for stronger safeguards to prevent future violations. It urged lawmakers to establish mechanisms to ensure compliance with procurement laws and principles of transparency, accountability and value for money.
“The National Assembly cannot fully give effect to the spirit and purpose of the judgment while its members continue to retain benefits derived from conduct declared unlawful by the Court,” SERAP said.
The group cited Section 15(5) of the Constitution, which requires the state to abolish corruption and abuse of power.
Justice Bogoro’s ruling found that the expenditure schemes violated the Public Procurement Act, constitutional provisions and the Code of Conduct for Public Officers. The judge also identified evidence of self-dealing, conflict of interest and failure to prioritise the national interest.
SERAP warned that it could return to court if the National Assembly fails to act within seven days.
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions against you, other lawmakers, and the National Assembly to secure the recovery and return of the unlawfully expended N110 billion,” the organisation said.
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Korede Abdullah 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius