SERAP asks INEC to account for alleged N126bn election funds

SERAP has asked INEC to account for more than ₦126.46 billion in public funds allegedly diverted, lost, mismanaged or left unexplained in election spending records.

The group gave the commission seven days to publish details of the payments, beneficiaries, contracts, procurement processes, contractors, suppliers and evidence that goods and services were delivered or used.

Punch and Vanguard reported that SERAP based the demand on the 2023 audited report of the Auditor-General of the Federation, published on August 7, 2026. The audit covered periods between January and December 2022 and, in some cases, up to December 31, 2023.

The funds were said to relate to electoral operations, including ballot boxes, electoral devices, sensitive materials, result sheets, vehicles, accreditation devices, audit and consultancy services and digital archiving.

SERAP also asked INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan to refer the alleged diversion, unlawful expenditure, procurement violations and other financial issues to the EFCC and ICPC for investigation, prosecution and recovery where wrongdoing is established.

The organisation said it would consider legal action if the commission did not act within seven days. INEC had not issued a fresh public response in the reports.

Sources: Punch, Vanguard