The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, to investigate allegations that governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress diverted N800 billion for political and campaign activities.
In a letter dated May 16, 2026, and signed by SERAP Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation urged INEC to conduct a “prompt, thorough, impartial, independent, transparent and effective” investigation into the allegations.
SERAP also asked the electoral body to demand full disclosure from the governors and the APC regarding alleged contributions made to a dedicated campaign fund, including the identities of donors and the lawful source of the funds.
The group further requested that the information be made available to the organisation.
According to SERAP, the allegations stem from reports claiming that APC governors were allegedly making monthly contributions from their Federation Account Allocation Committee allocations into a campaign fund intended to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The organisation warned that the allegations raise concerns about political finance transparency, democratic governance, electoral integrity and citizens’ right to political participation.
SERAP said opaque political financing remained a major gateway for corruption and could undermine democratic legitimacy.
“Nigerians deserve to know who funds the candidates or political parties of their choice and any sources of any such funding,” the statement said.
The organisation added that the alleged diversion or opaque use of public funds could threaten the credibility of the 2027 elections, especially when combined with weak transparency mechanisms.
SERAP urged INEC to work with anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies to enforce sanctions where violations are established, including prosecution, fines and forfeiture of unlawful contributions.
The group also called on the commission to review compliance with Section 91 of the Electoral Act by political parties and candidates, particularly concerning campaign financing sources and spending limits.
SERAP referenced provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, including Section 14(2)(c) on public participation in governance and Section 15(5), which mandates public institutions to combat corruption and abuse of office.
The organisation further cited international treaties, including the African Union Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the UN Convention against Corruption, which it said require transparency in political financing.
SERAP gave INEC seven days to act or face possible legal action.
