Introduction

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, demanding that the Independent National Electoral Commission disclose how N126.46 billion appropriated for electoral operations was spent. The lawsuit alleges that the funds, meant to support the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process, were mismanaged, lost, or diverted without proper accountability.

What Happened

According to the Auditor-General of the Federation's 2023 report published in August 2026, INEC irregularly expended over 112 billion on ballot boxes and electoral materials without competitive bidding or required approvals. The audit further flagged 1.06 billion spent on a Toyota Prado SUV, 3.14 billion allocated to four contractors for ballot guides before awards, and 9.25 billion across 22 contracts for similar goods split to bypass procurement rules. Additional irregularities include 129 million paid to 19 accounting firms without proof of service, 504 million for accreditation devices with limited usability, and 235 million directed to unqualified contractors for sleeping mats and digital archiving. In each case, the auditor-general expressed concern that funds may have been diverted or may have been lost.

Why This Matters

With Nigeria's 2027 general elections approaching, the transparency of electoral financing directly affects public confidence in the vote's credibility. The suit emphasizes that electoral resources are public resources, and INEC must demonstrate lawful spending and proper asset tracking. The case also invokes constitutional provisions and international anti-corruption obligations, arguing that citizens deserve full disclosure of how funds intended to uphold democratic processes were actually used.

Key Takeaways

  • SERAP is seeking a court order of mandamus to compel INEC to detail every naira spent, list payment beneficiaries, and identify contractors and officials involved.
  • The lawsuit requests that INEC preserve all electoral equipment and materials covered by the auditor-general's findings to prevent tampering or disposal.
  • Key allegations include procurement without competitive bidding, contracts split to avoid regulations, and payments made without evidence of delivered goods or services.
  • The outcome could set a precedent for financial oversight of electoral bodies ahead of the 2027 elections.

Conclusion

The legal action underscores the growing demand for transparency in Nigeria's electoral system. As the country prepares for another election cycle, the court's response may determine whether INEC can convincingly account for billions meant to safeguard the vote, or whether further reforms are needed to restore public trust.