The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, to promptly launch an independent investigation into allegations that governors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) diverted approximately N800 billion for political and campaign-related activities.
SERAP demands transparency
In a letter dated 16 May 2026, signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare and posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, SERAP called for swift, transparent, and impartial action to examine the claims. The organization emphasized that the allegations raise serious concerns about electoral integrity and political finance transparency.
SERAP also demanded that INEC compel the APC and its governors to fully disclose any alleged campaign contributions, including the identities of donors and the lawful origins of funds, and to make such information publicly available.
Call for collaboration with anti-corruption agencies
The group further requested that INEC collaborate with relevant anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies to ensure accountability. It stressed that where violations are found, sanctions such as prosecution, fines, and forfeiture should be imposed.
SERAP also called for a broader review of compliance with Section 91 of the Electoral Act, particularly regarding political donations, campaign funding sources, and spending limits across all parties and candidates.
Threat to democratic integrity
According to SERAP, these allegations raise serious concerns about political finance transparency, electoral fairness, and the constitutional right of Nigerians to participate freely in their own government. The group warned that the alleged use of public resources for political gain threatens democratic integrity and undermines public trust.
SERAP maintained that citizens have a right to transparency in political financing, noting that opaque political financing remains a major entry point for corruption and a threat to democratic legitimacy.
INEC's statutory responsibilities
The organization argued that INEC has both constitutional and statutory responsibilities to ensure compliance with electoral laws. Section 91 of the Electoral Act empowers INEC to set limits on political donations, demand disclosure of contributions and sources of funds, and enforce sanctions against violations.
SERAP further warned that failure to act on the allegations could jeopardize the credibility of the 2027 elections, stating that the diversion or opaque use of public funds poses a grave risk to the integrity of the upcoming general elections.
Seven-day ultimatum
SERAP gave INEC a seven-day deadline to respond and implement the recommended actions, warning that it would initiate legal proceedings if no action is taken. It concluded that any misuse of public resources for political purposes would violate constitutional provisions, international treaties, and Nigeria's anti-corruption obligations. Such conduct undermines the principle of a level playing field and erodes citizens' ability to freely choose their representatives.
