SERAP sues INEC over ₦126.46 billion in electoral funds, seeking a court order compelling the Independent National Electoral Commission to explain how it spent the public money.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project filed the lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja following concerns raised in the Auditor-General of the Federation’s 2023 audited report.
The case comes as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, placing renewed attention on the management of public funds meant to support credible elections.
Why SERAP Sues INEC Over Electoral Funds
SERAP wants INEC to disclose financial records, identify contractors and provide evidence that the electoral materials covered by the audit findings were supplied.
The funds covered ballot boxes, electoral devices, sensitive materials, result sheets, vehicles and voter accreditation equipment. They also supported audit services, consultancy work and digital archiving.
According to SERAP, the Auditor-General’s report flagged more than ₦112.15 billion in payments for electoral materials allegedly made without competitive bidding or the required procurement clearance.
The organisation also cited concerns over payments for vehicles, election materials and other services. It questioned whether contractors supplied the goods and whether INEC followed the required procurement procedures.
However, these allegations do not establish that INEC officials stole or misused the funds. The court must consider the claims and any evidence presented during the proceedings.
What SERAP Wants the Court to Order
SERAP wants INEC to publish a detailed financial account showing the amounts released, payments made and identities of the beneficiaries. It also seeks information about the contractors, suppliers and beneficial owners of companies involved in the transactions.
The organisation further wants documentary and physical evidence that the commission received the electoral materials covered by the audit findings. It has asked INEC to disclose the current location and condition of the relevant equipment.
SERAP argues that Nigerians deserve transparency in the management of public funds, particularly those allocated to elections. It maintains that clear financial records would help citizens assess whether the money served its intended purpose.
As of October 19, 2026, reports said the court had not fixed a hearing date. The case remains a legal challenge, and the allegations have yet to be determined by the court.
