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Appeal Court in another FoI case Upholds HEDA’s Victory, Orders CBN to Release Pilgrims’ Subsidized Forex Details

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja in another landmark judgment has dismissed an appeal filed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) against a Federal High Court judgment compelling it to release information requested by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) on subsidized exchange rates granted to pilgrims between 2016 and 2020. In a unanimous decision delivered by Justices Usman Alhaji Musale, Boloukuromo M. Ugo, and Mohammed A. Danjuma, the appellate court upheld the ruling of Justice Mobolaji O. Olajuwon of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which on May 3, 2023, directed the apex bank to provide the requested details. The court further awarded N500,000 in costs against the CBN in favour of HEDA. The case began in 2020 when HEDA, acting under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, requested that the CBN disclose a comprehensive breakdown of the subsidized forex schemes it administered. The request covered the amounts disbursed under each scheme, sector-by-sector allocations, and the list of beneficiaries, including those under the foreign exchange intervention scheme. The Federal High Court granted HEDA’s request and ordered the release of the information. Dissatisfied, the CBN appealed, arguing that the suit was statute-barred, that the lower court lacked jurisdiction, and that the FOI Act had been wrongly applied. It also claimed that no records existed on the pilgrims’ subsidized exchange rate. The bank further maintained that the trial court misinterpreted sections of the FOI Act. The Court of Appeal rejected all these arguments. It ruled that transparency and accountability are matters of overriding public interest and clarified that under Section 20 of the FOI Act, an applicant denied access to information may approach the court for review within 30 days—or within such extended period as the court may allow, citing Order 34 Rule 3 of the Federal High Court Rules. The court also dismissed the CBN’s reliance on technicalities, stressing that the discretion to grant leave for judicial review lies with the court, not the applicant. On the issue of evidence, the appellate court affirmed the supremacy of the FOI Act over conflicting provisions of Section 104 of the Evidence Act, noting that Section 22 of the FOI Act expressly asserts its overriding authority. Reacting to the judgment, HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, described the decision as a landmark victory for transparency and accountability in Nigeria. He noted that the ruling reinforces citizens’ right to demand and obtain public information, especially in cases involving public funds and subsidies. “This judgment is not just for HEDA but for all Nigerians who believe in openness in governance. It sends a clear signal to institutions that secrecy has no place in a democracy and that public resources must be managed in the light of accountability,” Suraju said.

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CategoriesHEDA News

CBN Loses Appeal as HEDA Secures Order on MTN Fine Settlement Details

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has dismissed the appeal filed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) challenging a Federal High Court judgment that ordered it to release information requested by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) concerning its settlement with MTN Nigeria over allegations of improper repatriation of funds. In a unanimous decision delivered by Justices Osman Alhaji Musale, Boloukuromo M. Ugo, and Mohammed A. Danjuma, the appellate court upheld the earlier ruling of Justice J.K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which on January 10, 2024, directed the CBN to provide details of the settlement with MTN. The court further awarded the sum of N500,000 as costs against the apex bank in favour of HEDA. The dispute traces back to 2021 when HEDA, invoking the Freedom of Information Act, demanded that the CBN disclose the details of its resolution with MTN Nigeria after the government accused the telecommunications company of illegally repatriating $8.1 billion in violation of foreign exchange regulations. While MTN eventually reached an out-of-court settlement with the Federal Government, the terms of the agreement were never made public, prompting HEDA to approach the courts to compel disclosure. The Federal High Court had ordered the apex bank to release comprehensive details of the transaction, including the initial fine imposed on MTN, the final amount paid, the basis for the initial sanction, any concessions that resulted in a reduction of the fine, and the procedure through which such concessions were granted. Dissatisfied with the judgment, the CBN filed an appeal, contending that the lower court lacked jurisdiction, that the case constituted an abuse of court process, and that its right to fair hearing was violated. The bank also raised issues regarding the interpretation of Section 30 of the Freedom of Information Act and Section 104 of the Evidence Act, 2011. The Court of Appeal rejected all these arguments, holding that under Section 1(2) of the FOI Act, an applicant does not need to demonstrate any specific legal interest before seeking information from a public institution. The justices ruled that once a request is denied, the burden rests on the public institution to justify its refusal. They further criticised the CBN for attempting to divert HEDA to other institutions such as the National Library and the Federal High Court, noting that Section 5(1) of the FOI Act requires a public body that does not hold the requested information but knows where it is located to transfer the request accordingly and notify the applicant, a duty the apex bank failed to discharge. In its judgment, the Court of Appeal declared that the CBN, being a public institution, was bound by law to provide the information requested by HEDA. It described the bank’s failure to comply with the FOI request as unlawful and a breach of the intent of the legislation. Consequently, the appellate court affirmed in its entirety the decision of the lower court and ordered the CBN to pay N500,000 in costs to HEDA. The ruling, according to HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, not only compels the Central Bank of Nigeria to release the long-sought details of its settlement with MTN Nigeria but also strengthens the enforcement of the Freedom of Information Act, reinforcing the principle that public institutions must uphold transparency and accountability in their dealings.

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CategoriesHEDA News

Africa’s Clean Energy Agenda: HEDA joins global and regional stakeholders in Accra for FEC 2025

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) joined key stakeholders at the Future of Energy Conference (FEC) 2025, held on 26th and 27th August at the Labadi Beach Hotel, Accra, Ghana. The civil group ably represented by its Legal and Programme Manager, Mr. David Ogungbesan and Monitoring and Evaluation/Compliance Officer, Mrs. Barakah Danmole. HEDA participated in high-level discussions on financing Africa’s energy transition and unlocking investments for sustainable growth. The conference brought together policymakers, innovators, civil society organisations, private sector leaders, and development partners to reflect on Africa’s paradox of abundant natural resources amid persistent energy poverty. Participants highlighted the urgency of inclusive, accountable, and African-led solutions to address the reality that 600 million people on the continent still lack access to modern energy. Across two days of keynote addresses, panel sessions, fireside chats, and side events, the dialogue centred on innovative financing models such as blended finance, carbon markets, green bonds, and diaspora bonds, while also warning against unsustainable debt burdens. Strong governance, enabling policies, and regional cooperation were underscored as critical enablers of progress, with civil society organisations like HEDA positioned to hold governments and corporations accountable. National Oil Companies (NOCs) were identified as strategic players in the transition, but participants emphasised the need for improved corporate governance and insulation from political interference. A recurring theme was the importance of making clean energy projects “bankable” through financial viability, technical soundness, and supportive regulatory frameworks. The conference also featured an Innovation Challenge, where young Africans showcased home-grown solutions to energy challenges. Ashaba Ajarah from Uganda won first place with her innovative plastics-to-electricity and solar PV housing model, while innovations from Zimbabwe and Ghana also earned recognition. In its communiqué, the conference reaffirmed that Africa’s energy transition must be shaped “by Africa, for Africa, from Africa.” It called for mobilising domestic resources, scaling blended financing, reforming tariffs, and fostering regional integration to position Africa competitively in the global clean energy value chain. The 2025 edition not only reinforced the urgency of Africa’s transition agenda but also celebrated the continent’s growing capacity for innovation, collaboration, and leadership. With a commitment from stakeholders to deepen partnerships through 2026 and beyond, there is renewed hope that Africa’s clean energy future will be both inclusive and sustainable.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Urges Osun Governor Adeleke to Dethrone Ipetumodu Monarch Convicted of COVID-19 Fraud in U.S

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Nigeria’s foremost anti-corruption and human rights organization, has called on the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, to immediately commence the statutory process of dethroning Oba Joseph Oloyede, the Apetu of Ipetumodu, following his conviction and sentencing by a United States court for COVID-19 relief fraud. On August 26, 2025, Judge Christopher A. Boyko of the Northern District of Ohio, United States, sentenced Oba Oloyede to five years’ imprisonment for his role in a multi-million dollar fraud involving COVID-19 relief funds. The court also ordered him to repay approximately $4.4 million to victims of the fraudulent scheme. The monarch had earlier pleaded guilty after prosecutors presented evidence that he fraudulently used six companies to obtain loans under U.S. emergency relief packages, including the Paycheck Protection Programme (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) schemes. The civil society group, in a letter signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, addressed to Governor Ademola Adeleke, stressed that a traditional ruler, who by virtue of his position is expected to embody integrity, culture, and respect, cannot continue to occupy the revered stool of Ipetumodu while bearing the stigma of criminal conviction abroad. According to Suraju, traditional rulers are the custodians of culture and values, symbols of authority, and closest to their people. Such a sacred position must never be tainted by the moral burden of fraud, corruption or criminal conviction. “It is therefore on this premise that we respectfully demand the dethronement of Oba Yusuf Oloyede, the Apetu of Ipetumodu, to preserve the honour of Osun’s traditional institutions and safeguard the integrity of the state.” Suraju added. The anti-corruption organisation warned that failure to act promptly could amount to condoning fraud and defiling Osun State’s traditional institutions by the government. It urged the Governor to uphold the sanctity of leadership and protect the image of Nigeria both nationally and internationally. HEDA assured that it will continue to monitor developments closely and remain steadfast in advancing accountability, transparency, and the rule of law across all sectors of governance and leadership.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Gives AGF 14-Day Ultimatum to Reinstate Criminal Charges Against Ex-AMCON Boss, Ahmed Kuru

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Nigeria’s foremost anti-corruption and human rights organization, has called on the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to immediately reinstate the criminal charges against Mr. Ahmed Kuru, former Managing Director of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). In a petition signed by its Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, and addressed to the Attorney-General of the Federation, the civil society organization expressed grave concern over the decision of the Justice Ministerto discontinue criminal proceedings against Mr. Kuru, despite the fact that the case was being prosecuted under the Criminal Law of Lagos State. Recall that on August 12, 2025, The Guardian reported that Hon. Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State High Court discharged the defendant following a Notice of Discontinuance filed by the Director of Public Prosecution on behalf of the AGF. HEDA stressed that the AGF acted outside the scope of his constitutional powers, insisting that Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution only empowers the AGF to discontinue criminal cases arising from Federal Laws Acts of the National Assembly, and not cases instituted under state laws. Further citing the Supreme Court decision in FRN v. Osahon (2006) 5 NWLR (Pt. 973) 361, the organization reiterated that matters arising from state laws remain the exclusive jurisdiction of the Attorney General of the State, in line with Section 211 of the Constitution. The group further referenced State v. Ilori (1983) 1 SCNLR 94 to reinforce its argument. According to HEDA, “Criminal defence is an opportunity for the accused to clear his name, not a political shield from justice. Allowing the case to proceed is in the best interest of justice, particularly as Mr. Kuru’s co-defendant has already admitted guilt through a plea bargain and forfeited proceeds of the crime to the EFCC.” The organization therefore demanded the immediate reinstatement of charges against Mr. Kuru and other defendants. It warned that failure by the AGF to act within 14 days would compel HEDA to petition the Nigerian Bar Association’s Disciplinary Committee for abuse of office and explore other local and international legal actions. The organisation reminded the Attorney General of a failed similar attempt by his immediate predecessor Abubakar Malami, in the case against an in-law to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, John Abebe in 2018, in which the current Special Adviser in the AGF’s office and efcc prosecutor, Rotimi Oyedepo SAN, vehemently opposed Malami’s request and persuaded Justice Dada against granting The request, on the simple ground that only AG of Lagos State is constitutionally empowered to effect such withdrawal or take Over. The civil society organization further reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption, the defence of human rights, and the pursuit of justice in Nigeria.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA urges transparency in disbursement of N125.5 billion flood intervention fund

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the federal government to ensure accountability and transparency in the disbursement and use of the recently approved ₦125.5 billion flood intervention fund. This is contained in a statement signed by the Executive Secretary of HEDA, Sulaimon Arigbabu, on Wednesday in Lagos. Mr Arigbabu warned against repeating the failures of past ecological fund disbursements marred by mismanagement, lack of transparency, and political interference. “Nigerians cannot afford to repeat the ecological fund debacle. This ₦125.5 billion must be treated as an exceptional emergency fund—ring-fenced and dedicated solely to flood prevention, mitigation, and disaster response. Anything short of full transparency will further erode public trust,” Mr Arigbabu said. He recalled that in 2012, the Goodluck Jonathan-led administration disbursed ₦17.6 billion for flood mitigation, yet many victims received only token reliefs as low as ₦500, while numerous communities were completely left out. Mr Arigbabu added, “We commend the federal government for this new intervention. However, without clear frameworks for tracking, coordinating, and reporting at both federal and state levels, this fund risks being another missed opportunity.’’ He demanded the publication of a detailed breakdown of the fund’s disbursement, including amounts allocated to each state and federal MDA, names of implementing agencies and specific communities and infrastructure projects targeted. He also questioned the ₦10 billion allocation to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), stating it was inadequate considering NEMA’s nationwide mandate. It called for more support for State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and stronger accountability mechanisms. “NEMA is the lead agency but cannot cover all flood-prone communities, especially where SEMAs are inactive. These agencies must be empowered, coordinated, and monitored for effective response,” Mr Arigbabu noted. On regional flood emergencies, he urged Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, to publish a full report on September 10, 2024, Alau Dam flooding, to reassure the public and strengthen preparedness efforts. It also demanded a thorough investigation into the recent Mokwa flood in Niger State, which claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands. “Flooding in Nigeria is no longer an unexpected seasonal disaster—it is a predictable event. What we need is not just funding but institutional discipline and strategic response. “The success of this intervention will hinge on the integrity of its implementation,” he said. Mr Arigbabu enjoined all stakeholders—federal MDAs, state governments, and emergency agencies—to focus on people-centred interventions, including functional early warning systems, evacuation and emergency shelters, and sustainable drainage infrastructure.

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CategoriesClimate change

Oil Theft: Senate Must Match Security Efforts with Justice from IOCs for Niger Delta – HEDA

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Nigerian Senate to extend its ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft by holding International Oil Companies (IOCs), particularly Shell and Eni, fully accountable for decades of environmental degradation, economic sabotage, and human rights violations in the Niger Delta. Reacting to the recent meeting between the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, HEDA in a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, welcomed the renewed legislative attention to oil-related crimes but insisted that justice must go beyond addressing local theft. “While we commend the Senate for stepping up collaboration with security agencies to tackle oil theft, the deeper and more enduring theft is the environmental and economic plunder by IOCs. These companies including Shell and Eni in particular are attempting to exit Nigerian onshore quietly, divesting their assets without taking responsibility for the massive devastation they have caused. That is unacceptable.” Suraju maintained. The Senate Committee, led by Senator Ned Nwoko, recently emphasized the need for enhanced intelligence sharing and stronger coordination with security agencies to safeguard Nigeria’s oil infrastructure. However, HEDA insists that securing oil assets is only one part of the equation. “Justice for Niger Delta residents cannot be secured by police action alone, if the Senate truly wants to end economic sabotage, then it must also tackle the longstanding impunity of oil multinationals who, for decades, operated with little regard for the environment or the people.” Suraju added. HEDA recalled its consistent advocacy against hasty divestment by IOCs. The organization petitioned both Nigerian authorities and international accountability institutions to demand that IOCs remediate polluted sites and compensate affected communities before divesting. This demand was repeated in 2023 and 2024 following international legal rulings against the Shell. Yet, concrete local action remains grossly inadequate. “It’s time for the Nigerian Senate to show the same urgency in enforcing environmental justice as it is doing in curbing oil theft, communities in Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta and beyond continue to suffer the health, economic, and ecological consequences of oil extraction and they must not be abandoned again.” Suraju stressed. According to data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), between 2002 and 2025, Nigeria lost over 353 million barrels of crude oil worth an estimated $25.7 billion to theft. HEDA warns that the Senate must also investigate how much more has been lost to pollution, displacement, and corporate irresponsibility. “This is a defining moment, the Senate must rise above politics and protect the dignity and rights of the people. Shell and Eni must not be allowed to walk away without cleaning up their mess. Anything less is an injustice.” Suraju concluded.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Condemns Police Detention and Brutality Against Omoyele Sowore, Demands Unconditional Release

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has strongly condemned the arrest and brutal treatment meted out to Mr. Omoyele Sowore, a political activist and former presidential candidate, by the Nigeria Police Force. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group decried the illegal arrest, physical injury, inhumane treatment, and attempts on his life while in custody. “The circumstances surrounding Sowore’s invitation, detention, and transfer to an undisclosed location, including the reported alleged release of noxious gas into his holding cell and the severe injury to his right arm are unacceptable and condemnable,” Suraju stated. These actions according to HEDA raise serious concerns about the sanctity of human life and the rule of law in Nigeria. Suraju emphasized that as a human rights group that values freedom and the dignity of all individuals, HEDA cannot stand idly by while Sowore is subjected to such treatment by the Nigeria Police force in a case reportedly involving police officers allegedly close to the Inspector General of the police force. The group demands the immediate and unconditional release of Omoyele Sowore, provision of necessary medical attention, and assurance of his safety. HEDA also insists that the Nigeria Police Force must tender a public apology for the violation of Sowore’s human rights. “We hold the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, and those responsible for this atrocity accountable for any harm that comes to Sowore’s health or life and will report them individually and collectively to all relevant international bodies and governments,” Suraju added. HEDA also urges civil society organizations and the international community to join in condemning this brazen act of police brutality and demand justice for Omoyele Sowore.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Slams Osun Govt Over N3.1bn Foreign Trips, N115m Fumigation Spend in Six Months

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has condemned the Osun State Government, led by Governor Ademola Adeleke, over what it described as reckless, unjustifiable, and wasteful spending of public resources. The condemnation follows verifiable reports by SaharaReporters and The Guardian which revealed that the state government spent over ₦115 million on fumigation and a staggering ₦3.1 billion on foreign trips within a span of six months. These figures reportedly surpass the funds allocated to critical sectors such as basic education, water supply, and environmental services. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, HEDA described the financial decisions of the Adeleke-led administration as a disgraceful misuse of public funds in a state where the majority of residents still lack access to basic amenities. “It is both morally and legally unacceptable for any government to prioritise frequent foreign travels and questionable fumigation contracts over the basic welfare of its people. If this pattern of extravagant expenditure is not addressed, it could worsen the state’s economic challenges and further alienate the people from governance.” Suraju said. HEDA questioned the state government’s fiscal priorities and demanded full transparency in the use of public funds. The group specifically called on Governor Adeleke to publicly release a detailed breakdown of all foreign trips and fumigation contracts, including the names of contractors and the rationale behind the expenses. In addition, the group urged the Osun State Government to drastically cut non-essential spending and reallocate resources to sectors that directly impact the people such as education, healthcare, water access, youth employment, and rural development. “Governance is not an avenue for wasteful spending. The people of Osun deserve leadership that is transparent, prudent, and focused on delivering tangible development,” Suraju added. HEDA further charged the Osun State House of Assembly and civil society organisations to strengthen their oversight role and ensure the protection of public interest. The organisation argued that State Governor have refused to translate increased federal allocations into tangible governance delivery but rather frivolous expenditure and diversion of public funds, and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and responsible governance across Nigeria.

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