SPI-LAW Sues FG, Concessionaire, Seeks Cancellation Of Benin–Asaba Expressway Deal

The Society of Public Interest Lawyers in Nigeria (SPI-LAW) has dragged the Federal Government and the concessionaire of the Benin–Asaba Expressway before the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking the cancellation of the concession agreement and urgent rehabilitation of the deteriorating highway.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2171/2026 and filed on September 11, 2026, names the Benin–Asaba Expressway Concession Company Limited, the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Minister of Works as defendants.

SPI-LAW is asking the court to terminate the concession agreement and direct the Federal Government to take control of the highway and commence immediate rehabilitation and reconstruction of its damaged sections.

The lawyers have also sought interim and interlocutory orders compelling the authorities to introduce urgent safety and traffic management measures pending comprehensive repairs.

The group said the condition of the expressway had deteriorated to a dangerous level, with severely damaged and excavated portions exposing motorists and other road users to the risk of accidents, injuries and loss of lives. It argued that the situation should not be treated merely as a contractual disagreement between the Federal Government and the concessionaire.

According to SPI-LAW, the government has a continuing constitutional responsibility to protect Nigerians who use the critical transport corridor. It cited Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

The society said the Benin–Asaba Expressway serves as a vital economic link for businesses, traders, farmers, transport operators and emergency services across several states.

It warned that the continued deterioration of the road was imposing economic hardship on road users while also creating serious safety and security concerns.

SPI-LAW said the action was instituted in the public interest to promote accountability in the management of public infrastructure and protect the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians who depend on the highway.

The case is yet to be assigned a hearing date.