SERAP gives INEC seven days to account for ₦126bn electoral funds

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, has given the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, seven days to account for over ₦126.46 billion in public funds allegedly diverted, lost, mismanaged or otherwise unaccounted for. The organisation based its demand on findings in the Auditor-General of the Federation’s 2023 audited report, including allegations that more than ₦112 billion was paid for ballot boxes, electoral devices and other materials without competitive bidding or the required procurement approval.

In a statement issued on Saturday, SERAP also cited other questionable payments, including over ₦1 billion for Toyota Prado vehicles, more than ₦3 billion for ballot guides, sensitive materials and result sheets, and over ₦9 billion for 22 contracts for similar goods and services. It asked INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, to provide details of the payments, contractors and evidence of delivery, while referring the alleged financial irregularities to the EFCC and ICPC for investigation, prosecution and recovery.

Written by News Room