The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has sued the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its alleged failure to account for more than ₦126.46 billion appropriated for electoral operations.
SERAP disclosed that it had filed a lawsuit against INEC at the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an order compelling the electoral body to provide a detailed account of the funds allegedly diverted, lost, mismanaged or otherwise unaccounted for.
In a statement, the organisation said the funds were allocated for various electoral operations, including the procurement of ballot boxes, electoral devices and materials, sensitive election materials, result sheets, vehicles and accreditation devices.
The money was also intended to cover audit and consultancy services, digital archiving and other goods and services required for the conduct and administration of elections.
According to SERAP, the allegations were contained in the 2023 audited report of the Auditor-General of the Federation, published on August 7, 2026.
The organisation said the allegations covered different periods between January and December 2022, with some extending to December 31, 2023.
In suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/2507/2026, filed last week, SERAP is seeking an order of mandamus to compel INEC to disclose detailed information on the expenditure, utilisation and disbursement of the funds appropriated for electoral operations.
The organisation is also asking the court to direct INEC to provide a comprehensive financial and documentary account of the more than ₦126 billion, including the amounts released and paid, the beneficiaries of payments, details of contractors and the identities of their beneficial owners.
SERAP said the disclosure was necessary to establish how the funds were spent and whether they were used for the purposes for which they were appropriated.
The organisation stressed that public funds allocated for elections must be subject to transparency and accountability, insisting that INEC should account for every naira spent on electoral activities.
It described the allegations as particularly concerning given the constitutional responsibilities of the electoral commission and the importance of the funds to the administration of Nigeria’s electoral system.
SERAP further noted that transparency in the management of electoral resources was essential as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
According to the organisation, ensuring that funds allocated for electoral operations are properly utilised would help protect public confidence in the electoral process and support efforts to deliver credible elections.
