In the face of mounting public criticism, the House of Representatives has initiated the distribution of the controversial luxury Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to its members, ignoring the public outcries of Nigerians against such an extravagant procurement.
According to reliable information obtained by PREMIUM TIMES, members are receiving the 2022 model of Toyota Landcruiser Prado SUVs in batches, with special attention being given to female and senior lawmakers in the distribution process.
It was gathered that legislators with unresolved election cases pending at the Court of Appeal are excluded from this distribution, pending the outcomes of their litigation.
While the specific unit cost of these vehicles remains unverified, it is anticipated to fall within the range of N130 million to N160 million.
Clement Jimbo, a member of the House (APC, Akwa-Ibom), confirmed the ongoing distribution during a phone interview with PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday.
“They have indeed commenced the distribution. As you may know, it is the official vehicle. Distribution began with female lawmakers and those without ongoing litigation related to elections. However, if you have election litigation pending, you are required to resolve it before being eligible, ensuring that you will indeed serve for the next four years,” he explained.
Several lawmakers whose election victories were nullified still have pending cases at the Court of Appeal, as some lawmakers who initially won at the tribunal are still encountering legal challenges at the appellate court, which serves as the final arbiter for National Assembly members involved in election-related litigations.
Akin Rotimi (APC, Ekiti), the House’s spokesperson, had previously informed PREMIUM TIMES that the distribution would not occur until January next year.
The decision by House members to purchase luxury vehicles has drawn widespread criticism, particularly at a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardships resulting from government policies.
Furthermore, lawmakers have faced censure for opting to purchase foreign-made vehicles instead of supporting domestic automobile producers.
Many Nigerians contend that bolstering local production could help stabilize the Naira’s value, which has been struggling against major currencies in recent months.
