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The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called upon the governors and the current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to share a comprehensive report regarding the federal allocations meant for local governments since the nation's return to democracy.
SERAP made this request following the disclosure on the misappropriation of funds by the FCT and state governments since 1999.
The group accused the governors of Nigeria's 36 states and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, for allegedly diverting a staggering N40 trillion intended for local governments since the year 1999.
The organization has further appealed to the authorities to promptly involve the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into the actual disbursement and spending of federal allocations designated for local governments since May 1999.
In a Freedom of Information request dated January 27, 2024, and signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP argues that Nigerians have the right to be informed about the specifics of the disbursement and spending of federal allocations in each state and the FCT.
According to SERAP's findings, the 36 states and the FCT have collectively amassed over N40 trillion in federal allocations meant for the 774 local government areas in the country and the FCT.
Expressing concern, Oluwadare stated, "SERAP is concerned that despite the country’s enormous oil wealth, ordinary Nigerians have derived very little benefit from oil money primarily because of widespread grand corruption, and the culture of impunity of perpetrators."
The organization emphasized the necessity for states and the FCT to consistently publish information regarding the actual disbursement and spending of federal allocations designated for local governments.
The organization urged the adoption of recommended measures within seven days, threatening legal action if there is no response.
