Reps Take Delivery of N160bn SUVs, Emphasize National Assembly Ownership

Reps Take Delivery of N160bn SUVs, Emphasize National Assembly Ownership.

Members of the House of Representatives have commenced the phased receipt of their Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), with the final installment expected before December. The House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, confirmed this development during a conversation with journalists in Abuja.

In an effort to underscore the ownership of these vehicles, the management of the House issued an internal circular to all members, explicitly stating that the SUVs are the property of the National Assembly and must not be sold.

An anonymous source familiar with the matter explained, "This particular Assembly is very particular about things being done right. In previous assemblies, people would collect their vehicles and sell them off, but the Speaker has put his foot down against such. The spokesperson was mandated to issue a statement internally to members and ensure that no member must sell their vehicles as they are National Assembly property."

The management is closely monitoring members' use of the vehicles to ensure they are employed for legislative purposes. The decision to purchase these SUVs and bulletproof vehicles for principal officers has been the subject of much controversy and public discussion.

The Human Rights Writers Association (HURIWA) criticized the move, citing insensitivity to the plight of Nigerians. Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project also sought a court injunction to halt the procurement of these vehicles.

The Senate, however, defended the purchase, asserting that lawmakers require the vehicles for their official duties.

According to Akin Rotimi, priority was given to female lawmakers, individuals with disabilities, and those without pending court cases. He noted, "Some members have started taking delivery of their vehicles. Priority was given to women in the parliament, people with any form of disability, and the elderly. The management has also ensured that only members who have been fully disposed of their court cases will be given the vehicles to avoid problems."

The vehicles are set to arrive in three batches for use by committee chairmen and members.