The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has dragged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) before the Federal High Court over the alleged mismanagement of ₦55.9 billion earmarked for the 2019 general elections.
According to the lawsuit (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/38/2026) filed last Friday in Abuja, SERAP is asking the court to compel INEC to account for funds meant for smart card readers, ballot papers, result sheets, and other election materials.
The allegations are based on findings contained in the Auditor-General’s annual report published on 9 September 2025, which accused INEC of failing to properly account for payments made to contractors. The report reportedly flagged payments made without adequate documentation, approvals, or clear records.
SERAP is also demanding that INEC disclose the identities of all contractors involved, including their directors and shareholders, and to recover any missing or misappropriated funds.
According to the rights group, the alleged lack of transparency and accountability undermines Nigerians’ constitutional right to free, fair, and credible elections, warning that electoral integrity cannot exist where public funds are shrouded in secrecy.
The case is expected to test Nigeria’s commitment to electoral accountability and public financial transparency.
What are your thoughts — should INEC be compelled to open its books fully?
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