CSJ condemns lavish SUV purchases by lawmakers amid fiscal crisis

The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) has strongly criticized the purchase of Toyota SUVs valued at around N130 million each as official vehicles for members of the House of Representatives. This move is deemed highly insensitive, given Nigeria’s dire fiscal situation.

According to the group’s statement, the organization is deeply troubled by the revelation that the House of Representatives has acquired these luxurious vehicles, which appear to have been financed through borrowing. A statement jointly signed by the CSJ’s Good Governance Manager, Victor Emejuiwe, and Public Finance Management, Sundayson Chidi, expressed grave concern.

The House Committee on Media Chairman, Akin Rotimi, justified the purchase by claiming that it adhered to procurement regulations and that this practice has been ongoing in previous legislative assemblies. He argued that these vehicles are utility operational vehicles designated for the lawmakers’ oversight functions.

The CSJ and other concerned Nigerians find this development troubling in light of the nation’s perilous fiscal condition. With a substantial portion of the country’s revenue going towards servicing debt, there is minimal funding left for essential expenses. This vehicle acquisition at a time when Nigeria struggles to meet foreign exchange obligations for vital industries only exacerbates economic challenges.

The CSJ has called for the return of these vehicles and reimbursement to the treasury, emphasizing the need for legislators to show fiscal responsibility and not exacerbate the economic hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians.