Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) alleges that Nigeria’s governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have diverted N40tn allocated for local governments since 1999. SERAP calls on them to disclose details of federal allocations and urges the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate disbursement and spending.
In a Freedom of Information request dated January 27, 2024, and signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP emphasizes the public’s right to know how federal allocations have been disbursed and spent in each state and the FCT.
The organization insists that states and the FCT should regularly publish information regarding the actual disbursement and spending of federal allocations meant for local governments.
SERAP’s findings indicate that the 36 states and the FCT have collectively collected over N40tn in federal allocations intended for the 774 local government areas and FCT.
Expressing concern over the impact of grand corruption and impunity, SERAP stresses that transparency in disbursement is crucial for accountability, preventing corruption, building trust in democratic institutions, and strengthening the rule of law.
The governors and the FCT Minister are urged to take recommended measures within seven days to increase transparency and public trust. SERAP warns of legal actions if there is no response, emphasizing the fundamental importance of transparency in the use of federal allocations to benefit local communities and prevent diversion for personal gain.
