ASJA Urges Respect for Separation of Powers After Court Ruling

The pro-democracy group ASJA has called for respect for the separation of powers in light of a Federal High Court ruling that deemed the National Assembly's N110 billion expenditure on the procurement of official vehicles unlawful. The court, sitting in Lagos, declared that N40 billion was spent on 360 SUVs for House of Representatives members, while N70 billion was allocated for Senate members, as part of the 2022 supplementary budget.

ASJA's Executive Director, Dr. Torkuma Asongo, insisted that members of the National Assembly should refund the N110 billion to the federal government.

The group criticized the expenditure as extravagant and argued that it undermines the institution of parliament. They emphasized the importance of adhering to due process and maintaining the integrity of the legislative arm of government.

ASJA cautioned against actions that could erode the independence of the legislature and diminish public confidence in democratic institutions.