SERAP Gives INEC Seven Days to Account for ₦126bn

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has given INEC seven days to account for over ₦126.46 billion in public funds appropriated for electoral operations but allegedly diverted, lost, mismanaged or unaccounted for.

The funds relate to procurement of ballot boxes, electoral devices, sensitive materials and result sheets. SERAP cited the Auditor-General’s 2023 report, which found irregular payments without competitive bidding, contracts awarded to unknown companies, and payments made before contracts were awarded. SERAP urged INEC to refer the findings to EFCC and ICPC for investigation and recovery.

Key Points:

Nigerians may lose confidence in INEC’s ability to conduct credible elections.
Missing electoral funds could undermine preparation for the 2027 general elections.
Contractors and officials who benefited may face prosecution and recovery of funds.
Weak procurement processes expose public resources to diversion and mismanagement.
The timing raises urgent questions about electoral integrity ahead of 2027.

SERAP’s ultimatum puts pressure on INEC to account for electoral funds. Nigerians should watch whether the commission complies or faces legal action.