Femi Falana, a prominent human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, has criticised members of the National Assembly over what he described as extravagant spending on personal benefits despite the widespread economic hardship facing many Nigerians.
Falana made the remarks during an interview on Signature TV, on Friday, 11 June, 2026, where he expressed concern about the allocation of public funds for lawmakers’ welfare while millions of citizens continue to struggle with poverty and rising living costs.
Speaking on government spending and accountability, Falana referenced a legal victory secured by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), which has consistently pushed for greater transparency in the management of public resources.
According to him, lawmakers approved a substantial allocation for their own benefit at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with economic challenges.
“Those who are buying cars for themselves, SERAP has just won a case. The National Assembly members allocated N110 billion to buy gifts for themselves while our people are wallowing in abject poverty,” Falana said.
The senior lawyer argued that public office holders should demonstrate greater sensitivity to the plight of ordinary citizens, particularly amid concerns over inflation, unemployment, and the rising cost of living. He suggested that government institutions should prioritise investments that directly improve the welfare of the population rather than expenditures perceived as serving the interests of political office holders.
SOURCE: Castro_Cash_Jagaban
