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CDHR Hails Court’s Verdict Over N110bn Expenditures On SUVs By NASS
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has applauded the landmark judgment delivered by Justice Yellim Bogoro of the Federal High Court in Lagos, which declared unlawful the controversial ?110 billion expenditure by the National Assembly on vehicles and support allowances for lawmakers.
CDHR described the court’s judgement as courageous and historic, saying it represents a significant victory for constitutionalism, transparency, accountability, and the collective interests of the Nigerian people.
According to the body, the judgement firmly reaffirms the sacred principle that no arm of government, regardless of its constitutional status, is above the law or exempt from public scrutiny.
This was contained in a statement released yesterday and jointly signed by the CDHR National President, Comrade ‘Yinka Folarin, and National Secretary, Comrade Idris Afeez Olayinka.
The group particularly commended the court for its firm stance that legislative autonomy cannot serve as a shield for illegality, abuse of public trust, or actions that undermine constitutional obligations to citizens.
The ruling rightly underscores that public office is a trust and that holders of such offices must exercise their powers with utmost fidelity to the public good, it stated.
The committee noted with appreciation the court’s recognition of the prevailing economic hardships confronting millions of Nigerians, affirming that public resources must be deployed in a manner that reflects the priorities and welfare of the people.
“At a time when citizens are grappling with rising inflation, unemployment, and declining living standards, the allocation of ?110 billion for the direct benefit of lawmakers was rightly subjected to strict constitutional scrutiny,” it said.
CDHR also saluted the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) for its unwavering commitment to public interest litigation and the defense of accountability in governance.
“Through this action, SERAP has once again demonstrated the vital role of civil society organizations in safeguarding democracy, promoting transparency, and ensuring that public institutions remain accountable to the electorate. Furthermore, the court’s affirmation of SERAP’s locus standi is highly commendable, as it strengthens the growing jurisprudence on public interest litigation in Nigeria and encourages citizens and civil society groups to challenge actions that threaten public welfare,” it added.
CDHR also commended the trial judge for courageously affirming that procurement processes involving public funds must comply strictly with the Public Procurement Act, the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
According to the committee, “The learned trial judge deserves deep commendation for courageously affirming that procurement processes involving public funds must comply strictly with the Public Procurement Act, the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The court’s finding that the massive expenditure constituted self-dealing and a conflict of interest sends a strong, clear message that public institutions must always be guided by integrity, transparency, and value for money.”
Moving forward, the CDHR urges the leadership of the National Assembly to fully comply with the judgment and to embrace a culture of openness, accountability, and prudent management of public resources.
“All public office holders across the federation should regard this judgment as a timely reminder that constitutional powers must always be exercised in the absolute interest of the people.
“This judgment stands as a beacon of hope for Nigerians who continue to demand responsible governance, fiscal discipline, and respect for the rule of law. It is a victory not only for SERAP but for every Nigerian committed to justice, accountability, and democratic governance.
“The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights remains resolute in its commitment to supporting all lawful efforts aimed at promoting good governance, protecting human rights, and ensuring that public institutions serve the populace rather than narrow personal or political interests,” it concluded.
The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress Christian Leaders Forum has expressed strong confidence in the capacity of All Progressives Congress (All Progressives Congress) candidates in the state to deliver effective governance if elected into office in the coming elections.
The State Coordinator of the forum, Archbishop Lucky Aroh, made this known during a breakfast and thanksgiving meeting held in Port Harcourt, where leaders gathered to pray for the stability of the party and the safety of its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.According to him, the meeting was convened to seek divine intervention for peace, unity, and security among APC candidates across Rivers State.
“Today we are praying for APC stability in Rivers State and the security of our candidates that have been elected to contest the 2027 elections. It is a breakfast meeting,” Aroh said.
He further expressed optimism that the party’s candidates would not disappoint the people if entrusted with leadership responsibilities.
“They will not fail when elected into office. We are here as fathers of the land to let them know, and I must tell you the truth that these are the authentic people that will do well in Rivers State,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the National Chairman of the forum, Professor Olanrewaju Abraham, commended the Rivers State chapter for organizing the programme, noting that the national body of the forum believes strongly in the power of prayer.
He stated that political leadership provides an opportunity to influence society positively, including advancing moral and spiritual values, while expressing confidence that APC candidates at all levels would emerge victorious in the upcoming elections.
Also speaking, the Rivers State Women Leader of the APC, Hon. Darling Amadi, praised the forum for its commitment to prayers for peace, stability, and the protection of party candidates.
Represented by the Deputy Women Leader of the party in the state, she described the initiative as commendable and urged other political and support groups within the party to emulate the gesture in promoting unity and stability.
By: John Bibor, Menebe Emmanuel & Fortune Paibi
Prominent businessman and philanthropist, Elder Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, was celebrated in grand style as he marked his 70th birthday anniversary, with distinguished Nigerians, business leaders, and golf enthusiasts gathering to honour his remarkable contributions to society.
The colourful celebration took place at the Port Harcourt Golf Club, where friends, associates, and well-wishers converged to pay tribute to the revered elder statesman.
Chairman of the occasion, High Chief (Dr.) Ikenna Okafor, described the celebrant as a detribalised Nigerian whose generosity, humility, and commitment to humanity have earned him admiration across different communities and backgrounds.
According to Dr. Okafor, Pa Osagwe-Ogo’s impact on society and the development of his community remains unparalleled. He noted that members of the golfing community are proud to be associated with a father figure who consistently promotes the welfare and well-being of those around him.
He further stated that the history and growth of the Port Harcourt Golf Club cannot be told without acknowledging the significant role played by the celebrant, whose wisdom, encouragement, and leadership have helped sustain the club over the years.
“We are here to celebrate a man who has impacted humanity positively, a peace-loving individual and an epitome of hope for the younger generation. We pray to emulate his virtues. Today, we celebrate a bridge-builder, a trailblazer, and an iconic leader whose life continues to inspire many,” Dr. Okafor said.
He expressed delight at the large turnout of guests from various walks of life, describing it as a testament to the respect and affection Pa Osagwe-Ogo commands within and beyond Rivers State.
In his response, the celebrant, Pa Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving his life and granting him the privilege of attaining the milestone age of 70.
He also thanked members of the Port Harcourt Golf Club, family members, friends, and associates for identifying with him during the celebration and for their unwavering support over the years.
The event featured the cutting of the birthday cake, presentation of awards to deserving members of the club, goodwill messages, and moments of celebration among guests.
The ceremony was attended by notable personalities from the business community, the golfing fraternity, and other sectors, all of whom joined in celebrating the life and legacy of the respected elder statesman.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Kuru Sirawoo, have been honoured with awards of recognition in connection with the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations held in Port Harcourt.
The awards, which formed part of activities marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day on June 12, were formally presented on Tuesday at the Ministry of Information and Communications in Port Harcourt.
Presenting the awards was Hon. Abdul Hameed Oladipupo Alli, popularly known as “Mr. Nigeria,” Publisher of Asiwaju Trumpet Magazine and Achievers World International Magazine.
Governor Fubara was recognised for his efforts in sustaining peace, stability, and a conducive political atmospherJohn Bibor / Menebe Emmanuel / Fortune Paibie in Rivers State. The organisers noted that his administration has fostered harmony and strengthened civic participation across the state.
Dr. Sirawoo, on the other hand, was honoured for his exemplary administrative leadership and significant contributions to effective information management within the Ministry of Information and Communications.
Representing Dr. Sirawoo at the presentation ceremony, Dr. Christian Davies received the award on his behalf and expressed gratitude for the recognition. He described the honour as a reflection of Dr. Sirawoo’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, excellence, and dedicated public service.
Dr. Davies assured the organisers that the award would be formally conveyed to the Permanent Secretary.
The event also featured the presentation of commemorative publications highlighting major governance and civic milestones in Rivers State, including Easter celebrations, Workers’ Day activities, the Governor’s third anniversary in office, and Democracy Day programmes.
Organisers of the awards commended the Rivers State administration for what they described as sustained peace, political stability, and improved civic engagement, noting that these achievements have contributed significantly to the state’s continued development.
By: Jessica Sambol
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