The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has taken legal action against President Bola Tinubu, embarking on a significant lawsuit. Their petition revolves around the failure to disclose the spending details of approximately N400 billion, which has been saved following the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.
According to reports, the federal government managed to accumulate this substantial amount within a mere four weeks after implementing the removal of petrol subsidy. However, the lack of transparency in revealing how these savings will be utilized has raised concerns and prompted SERAP to seek a remedy through the court system.
The lawsuit, with the reference number FHC/L/CS/1514/2023, was filed last week at the Federal High Court in Lagos. In their legal action, SERAP demands an “order of mandamus” to direct and compel President Tinubu to make public the details of the spending related to the N400 billion saved due to the subsidy removal on May 29, 2023.
SERAP is also pushing for additional orders of mandamus to direct the President to provide specifics on the plans for utilizing the savings derived from the subsidy removal, including information on the specific projects that will benefit from these funds. Furthermore, they request details regarding the mechanisms in place to safeguard against any possible diversion of the savings into private pockets.
The crux of SERAP’s argument lies in the right of Nigerians to know how these savings will be allocated. By disclosing the spending details, the risks of corruption in utilizing these funds can be mitigated, ensuring the money is genuinely used for the betterment of the country and its citizens.
SERAP emphasizes that the government has a legal obligation to ensure that the savings from the removal of subsidy on petrol are channeled solely for the benefit of the 137 million poor Nigerians, who bear the brunt of such economic decisions.
The lack of transparency surrounding the spending of the savings from the subsidy removal raises concerns about potential misappropriation or embezzlement of these funds, which could have severe consequences for the citizens and undermine their fundamental interests.
To reinforce their case, SERAP highlights that transparency and accountability in the handling of the N400 billion savings would foster public trust and confidence in the government. It would demonstrate that the funds are being used to uplift and support those in need, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized sections of society.
Moreover, SERAP argues that the government’s obligations under the Nigerian Constitution, Freedom of Information Act, and various human rights treaties necessitate the disclosure of information regarding the spending of public funds. Citizens have a right to access information about their government’s activities, especially when it involves such significant financial decisions that directly impact their lives.
The removal of subsidy on petrol has disproportionately affected poor Nigerians, impeding their right to an adequate standard of living. SERAP contends that without transparency in the spending of the savings, the removal will continue to undermine the rights of the citizens and increase their vulnerability to poverty.
The legal representatives of SERAP, including Kolawole Oluwadare, Ms. Adelanke Aremo, and Ms. Valentina Adegoke, filed the suit, aiming to bring attention to the issue and seek a fair and just resolution through the Nigerian judiciary.
As of now, no hearing date has been set for the case.
Source: Premium Times
