SERAP Sues Governors, Wike Over Secrecy in N400bn Security Votes

 

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has dragged the 36 state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged failure to account for billions of naira collected as security votes since May 29, 2023.

In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/95/2026, filed last Friday, the organisation is seeking an order compelling the governors and the FCT minister to disclose details of how the funds have been spent and the impact on security across the country.

SERAP Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, who confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday, said the legal action became necessary due to worsening insecurity nationwide despite huge allocations to security votes.

He cited recurring incidents of mass killings in Benue State and violent attacks in other parts of the country as evidence that the funds have not translated into improved safety for citizens.

The group is asking the court to mandate the respondents to publish comprehensive reports on the allocation, utilisation and implementation of projects funded with security votes, including steps being taken to strengthen security infrastructure.

SERAP noted that over N400 billion is budgeted annually as security votes nationwide, adding that at least 10 governors reportedly set aside about N140 billion for the same purpose in the 2026 fiscal year.

According to the organisation, Nigerians have a constitutional right to know how public resources meant to safeguard lives and property are being utilised.

“Nigerians deserve transparency in the spending of security votes meant to protect them. Continued secrecy encourages mismanagement and undermines public trust,” SERAP stated.

It warned that escalating insecurity has deepened poverty, hunger and human rights violations, stressing that accountability in the management of security funds is critical to reversing the trend.