The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the National Assembly to release full details of the planned ₦37 billion renovation of its complex.
Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the judgment in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/51/2022. The case was filed by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) through its lawyer, Seidu Mohammed.
The court directed the National Assembly to provide the original proposal and assessment reports, the procedure used to reach the ₦37bn estimate, the actual amount approved and allocated, and records of funds already disbursed.
Justice Nwite ruled that the requested information falls under the Freedom of Information Act. He noted that the National Assembly had no legal basis to deny access.
“The information is simple and harmless. When an institution like the respondent refuses to release it, the aim of the Act is defeated. Such denial encourages corruption and financial recklessness,” the judge said.
HEDA Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, welcomed the ruling on Sunday. He described it as a major step towards accountability in public projects.
“This judgment affirms the right of citizens to demand details of government spending. We expect the National Assembly to comply fully with the order,” Suraju said.
HEDA urged the National Assembly to obey the ruling without delay. The group also called on civil society, the media, and other stakeholders to demand transparency across all public institutions.
According to Suraju, silence in the face of financial secrecy only deepens corruption and mismanagement.
The ruling sets a strong precedent. It confirms that Nigerians have the right to know how public funds are allocated and spent. It also strengthens the fight against corruption by ensuring greater transparency in government projects.
