By Latiifah Amusan
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has taken legal action against President Bola Tinubu, seeking the publication of spending details of approximately N400 billion in subsidy savings from the removal of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) subsidy.
The suit, filed under number FHC/L/CS/1514/2023 at the Federal High Court in Lagos, demands that President Tinubu disclose the spending of the N400 billion saved since the implementation of the subsidy removal on 29 May 2023.
SERAP also seeks information about the specific projects the funds will be allocated and the measures in place to prevent the diversion of these savings into private hands.
Citing the citizens’ right to know how public funds are spent, SERAP contends that transparency in expenditure would curb corruption and ensure the savings benefit the 137 million impoverished Nigerians affected by the subsidy removal.
SERAP underscores the importance of accountability to promote public trust and confidence in the government.
By disclosing the details of the subsidy savings, the government can build trust with the people, especially the socially and economically vulnerable Nigerians.
The removal of subsidy on petrol has had a disproportionate impact on the poor, undermining their right to an adequate standard of living.
SERAP argues that President Tinubu’s government has a legal obligation to address the effects of subsidy removal on human rights and prevent dire consequences for vulnerable citizens.
The lawsuit cites the Nigerian Constitution, Freedom of Information Act, African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to underscore transparency obligations on the government to publish spending details.
With longstanding allegations of corruption and mismanagement of public funds, the lawsuit demands adherence to the rule of law and the eradication of corrupt practices and abuse of power.
SERAP urges the government to uphold its responsibility to ensure the welfare and happiness of every citizen and distribute resources for the common good.
