SERAP Demands INEC Account for ₦126bn Electoral Funds

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to account for over ₦126.46 billion in public funds allocated for electoral operations. These funds are reportedly linked to the procurement of essential electoral materials, including ballot boxes and result sheets, but are alleged to have been “diverted, lost, mismanaged or otherwise unaccounted for.” The demand was articulated in a statement by SERAP's Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, on September 12, 2026, referencing the 2023 audited report from the Auditor-General of the Federation, published on August 7, 2026.

SERAP has called for transparency regarding the payments made, the beneficiaries, and the status of the goods and services procured. Additionally, SERAP urged INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan to refer the alleged financial misconduct to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for investigation.

SERAP emphasized the importance of accountability in the management of electoral resources, warning of potential legal action if INEC fails to comply.