HEDA Calls for Full Disclosure of Legal Fees in P&ID Case to CBN Governor
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has formally urged the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Olayemi Cardoso, to publicly disclose the exact amount of legal fees paid to lawyers and law firms that represented Nigeria in the highly controversial Process and Industrial Developments Limited (P&ID) case. This request is made under the provisions of the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act, 2011, aiming to enhance public accountability and good governance.
Invoking Transparency Through Legal Means
In a detailed letter signed by HEDA's Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, and addressed directly to CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso, the organisation emphasised that this disclosure is critical for promoting transparency in Nigeria's financial management. HEDA highlighted that during the ongoing case between Nigeria and P&ID, which was heard at the Commercial Court of the High Court of England under Claim No: CL-2019-000752, the CBN facilitated payments to legal representatives on behalf of the Nigerian government.
The public has a fundamental right to know how much national resources were expended on legal representation in the P&ID case, stated Suraju. He further explained that transparency in this matter is essential for accountability, as it will help Nigerians fully understand the financial implications of international trade disputes involving the country.
Accountability and Research Initiatives
HEDA's petition underscores that this request aligns with its core mandate to advocate for public accountability, transparency, and good governance across Nigeria. The organisation has given the CBN a seven-day deadline to provide the requested information, in strict compliance with the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.
Additionally, HEDA noted that this inquiry is part of a broader research initiative the organisation is conducting on the costs associated with trade disputes between states and private enterprises. The P&ID case serves as a vital reference point for such a study, offering insights into the financial burdens of legal battles on national resources.
By pushing for this disclosure, HEDA aims to set a precedent for greater openness in governmental financial dealings, ensuring that citizens are informed about how their funds are utilised in high-stakes international disputes.
