Labour Party lawmakers in the National Assembly have decided to accept the Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) worth N160 million each purchased for federal legislators, despite the advice of their party’s National Chairman, Julius Abure, who had criticised the plan as insensitive.

Recall that Abure had urged Labour Party lawmakers not to accept the luxury vehicles, but some of the lawmakers have expressed their intent to do so, emphasising the importance of these vehicles in carrying out their legislative duties.

They noted that these vehicles are essential for conducting oversight functions and visiting constituents in challenging areas.

Ngozi Okolie, a Labour Party lawmaker representing Delta Aniocha North and South, said the vehicles are necessary work tools for lawmakers. She pointed out that state-level politicians receive more benefits than federal lawmakers, making the official vehicles essential.

Stainless Nwodo, a Labour Party lawmaker representing Igbo Etiti and Uzo-Uwani constituencies in Enugu State, commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the official vehicles. Nwodo said the SUVs would benefit constituents and facilitate visits to constituents in challenging areas.

However, Neda Imasuen, the lawmaker representing Edo South Senatorial District, mentioned that he would wait for the arrival of the vehicles before making a decision.