Tracka Demands Accountability for N129.5 Billion in Suspended Census Funds
The civic technology platform Tracka has raised serious concerns over the alleged misappropriation of N129.5 billion earmarked for Nigeria's suspended 2023 population census. In a detailed report and a Freedom of Information request made public on March 26, 2026, the group is demanding full transparency from the National Population Commission regarding the expenditure of these funds.
Questioning the Whereabouts of Census Funds
Tracka revealed that between February 2022 and December 2023, a total of N129.5 billion was disbursed for various activities related to the census, which was ultimately truncated. The organisation has formally written to NPC Chairman Nasir Kwarra, requesting a detailed breakdown of how this substantial sum was utilized. "Our simple question is: Where did the money go?" the group stated, highlighting that Nigeria remains without updated demographic data despite the massive financial outlay.
Specific Expenditures Under Scrutiny
According to Tracka's independent tracking, significant portions of the funds were allocated to specific items, including:
- N118.38 billion for Personal Digital Assistants and accessories
- N2.47 billion for Hilux vehicles
- N499.8 million for power banks
- N106.19 million for an e-recruitment portal
Despite these expenditures, the group emphasized that Nigerians are still in the dark about the outcomes or current status of the census exercise. The last successful census in Nigeria was conducted in 2006, leaving a critical gap in accurate population data that affects governance and public service delivery.
Implications of Inaccurate Population Data
Tracka warned that the absence of reliable demographic information has far-reaching consequences. "Without accurate population data, children end up in overcrowded classrooms, hospitals and primary health centres are underprovided, governments struggle to allocate resources fairly, and development planning suffers," the organisation added. This lack of data hampers effective policy-making and resource distribution across the country.
Calls for Anti-Corruption Investigations
In addition to demanding answers from the NPC, Tracka has called on key anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, to investigate the expenditure. The group also urged the National Assembly to exercise its oversight functions to ensure accountability and prevent further misuse of public funds.
The FoI request, dated February 19, 2026, and signed by Tracka Head Osiemi Joshua, seeks comprehensive details on the disbursements, including beneficiaries, dates of payments, and expected deliverables. As of now, Tracka claims there has been no response from the NPC, raising further questions about transparency and governance in the handling of the census project.
