SERAP sues INEC over failure to account for ‘₦126bn electoral funds’

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for failing to account for over N126.46 billion in electoral funds. These funds were allocated for various purposes, such as procurement of election materials, equipment, vehicles, and consulting services.

SERAP seeks an order compelling INEC to disclose details of the expenditure, utilization, and disbursement of these funds. The allegations against INEC are based on the 2023 audited report by the Auditor-General of the Federation, which was published on August 7, 2026. The suit claims that INEC has irregularly paid more than ₦112.15 billion for ballot boxes, electoral devices, and materials without competitive bidding or BPP Certificate of No Objection, and that the contracts were awarded to unqualified companies.

Additionally, SERAP alleges that INEC paid over ₦1 billion for a Toyota Prado TXL 2021 Model without competitive bidding and that the contracts were awarded without proper procedures. The organization further claims that INEC paid over ₦3.14 billion to four contractors for ballot guides, sensitive materials, and result sheets without due process, and over ₦9.25 billion for 22 contracts for similar goods and services, with contracts awarded on the same day.

SERAP also states that INEC paid over ₦129 million to 19 accounting firms for financial audit services without evidence of utilization, and over ₦504 million for accreditation devices without due procurement processes. The lawsuit seeks to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper utilization of funds entrusted to INEC for the administration of Nigeria's electoral system.