Advocate.ng Latest news update on politics, entertainment, sport and more
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against Nigeria’s governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Mr. Nyesom Wike.
The suit alleges their failure to account for N5.9 trillion and $4.6 billion loans obtained by their states and the FCT.
SERAP is also asking the court to compel the governors and Mr. Wike to publish copies of the loan agreements and invite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the spending of these loans.
This legal action follows a recent disclosure by Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, revealing that the previous administration left a significant debt of $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities, making it impossible for the state to pay salaries.
SERAP argues that transparency in the spending of these loans is essential to prevent corruption and improve accountability.
In the suit, SERAP is requesting the court to direct and compel the governors and Mr. Wike to account for the loans and publish the details of the loan agreements.
The organization emphasizes the importance of public scrutiny and the right of Nigerians to know how the loans are being spent.
SERAP also highlights the constitutional principle of democracy, which supports citizens’ right to participate in the management of public funds.
The suit is filed under the number FHC/ABJ/CS/592/2024 at the Federal High Court, Abuja.
It emphasizes that the states and FCT should be guided by transparency and accountability principles and proactively account for the loans obtained.
SERAP stresses the need for transparency to reduce vulnerability to corruption and mismanagement in the spending of the loans.
As of now, no date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s public finance management.
Subscribe to the Advocate News letter and receive news updates daily in your inbox.
