Accountability of Allocations
EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a move aimed at fostering transparency and accountability in governance, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a stern call to action directed at 36 state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The organization has demanded detailed disclosure regarding federal allocations designated for local governments since the advent of democracy in 1999.
Citing concerns over the opaque nature of fund disbursement to local government areas (LGAs), SERAP has urged the governors and the FCT Minister to invite the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the actual utilization of these allocations.
The call for accountability comes in the wake of remarks made by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who highlighted discrepancies in fund allocation and utilization. Buhari’s assertion, alleging that a significant portion of allocated funds is siphoned by LGA chairpersons, underscores the urgency of addressing fiscal transparency at the grassroots level.
In its Freedom of Information requests dated January 27, 2024, SERAP emphasized the imperative for states and the FCT to adhere to principles of transparency and accountability in the management of federal allocations meant for LGAs. The organization asserts that such measures are essential to curbing corruption, building public trust, and fostering equitable development across the nation.
SERAP
Kolawole Oluwadare, Deputy Director of SERAP, stressed that the lack of transparency surrounding the disbursement and expenditure of federal allocations has perpetuated poverty and hindered access to essential services in various states. Oluwadare underscored the importance of upholding constitutional mandates and international commitments to combat corruption and ensure proper resource management.
According to SERAP, the total federal allocations disbursed to states and the FCT for LGAs surpasses N40 trillion. Despite the substantial funding, the organization contends that the absence of clear accountability mechanisms has facilitated embezzlement and misappropriation of public funds, exacerbating socio-economic disparities.
In light of Nigeria’s legal obligations under the UN Convention against Corruption and the Nigerian Constitution, SERAP asserts that the public’s right to access information pertaining to government expenditures must be upheld without interference.
As SERAP awaits responses from the concerned parties, the organization emphasizes the urgency of addressing systemic deficiencies in fund management to foster inclusive development and uphold the principles of democratic governance in Nigeria. Failure to comply with the demands for transparency may result in legal action to enforce accountability measures in the public interest.
The call for accountability marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s quest for transparent and accountable governance, signaling a collective effort to combat corruption and promote equitable distribution of resources at the grassroots level.
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