The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, to urgently investigate allegations that governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress diverted about N800 billion from Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds for political and campaign purposes.
In a letter dated May 16, 2026, and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP called on INEC to act “promptly, thoroughly, impartially, independently, transparently and effectively” in probing the claims, which it said raise grave concerns about political finance transparency and electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The organisation also urged the commission to demand full disclosure from the APC and the affected governors on any contributions made to campaign funds, including the identities of donors and the lawful sources of such funds.
SERAP further called on INEC to collaborate with anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies to ensure appropriate sanctions where breaches are established, including prosecution, fines and forfeiture of незаконous contributions.
The group asked the commission to initiate a comprehensive review of compliance with Section 91 of the Electoral Act 2022, particularly on limits, sources and disclosure of campaign financing by political parties and candidates.
According to SERAP, the allegations—reportedly linked to funding efforts for the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu—pose a direct threat to democratic governance and the credibility of future elections.
“The abuse of state resources for electoral advantage undermines democratic integrity and public trust,” the organisation said, noting that opaque political financing remains a major gateway for corruption and undue influence.
It stressed that Nigerians have a right to know who funds political parties and candidates, arguing that transparency is critical to ensuring free, fair and credible elections.
SERAP warned that large-scale public fiscal flows, weak transparency mechanisms and allegations of misuse of funds create sufficient grounds for INEC to activate its constitutional and statutory oversight powers.
Citing provisions of the Constitution and international treaties ratified by Nigeria, the organisation maintained that public institutions have a binding obligation to prevent corruption, ensure accountability and safeguard citizens’ right to political participation.
It added that any failure by INEC to enforce campaign finance regulations could erode public confidence in the electoral system and compromise the integrity of the 2027 polls.
SERAP gave the commission a seven-day deadline to act on its recommendations, warning that it would pursue legal action in the public interest if no response is received.
