SERAP sues INEC over ₦126bn in allegedly unaccounted electoral funds

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding allegedly unaccounted-for electoral funds. The suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeks to compel INEC to disclose detailed information concerning the expenditure and disbursement of over ₦126.46 billion appropriated for electoral operations.

According to the legal action, the funds were intended for the procurement of ballot boxes, electoral devices, vehicles, accreditation equipment, and various consultancy and audit services. SERAP cites the 2023 audited report from the Auditor-General of the Federation, published in August 2026, which raised questions regarding transactions occurring between January 2022 and December 2023.

Through an order of mandamus, SERAP is requesting a full financial and documentary account. This includes details on amounts released, payment beneficiaries, and the identities of contractors and their beneficial owners. The organization argues that as these are public resources, INEC must demonstrate that the funds were used lawfully for their intended purposes, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.