Lawyer Sues Nigerian Government Over Passport Fee Hike, Alleges Rights Violation

Lawyer Francis Chigozi Monek has filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian Federal Government, Interior Minister, and Immigration Service at the Federal High Court in Lagos over the significant hike in passport fees. Monek argues that the fee increase violates citizens' fundamental rights to freedom of movement and discriminates against millions of Nigerians, especially those earning minimum wage.

He contends that the new fees are unreasonable, oppressive, and create financial barriers for many citizens. Monek is seeking a court declaration that the fee increase is unconstitutional and demands a return to the previous rates for passport issuance.