CSOs Demand Probe into N26.9bn USPF Fraud Allegations

A coalition of 25 civil society organizations has called for an immediate investigation into the alleged misappropriation of N26.9 billion from the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF). The demand follows the release of the Auditor General's report in September 2025, which raised serious concerns about unaccounted expenditures and irregular contract awards linked to the fund.

The coalition, represented by Bilal Galadima and Jame Ogenyi, issued a communiqué in Abuja, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in managing public resources. They have warned that if the government, particularly Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani and Secretary of the USPF Yomi Arowosaf, do not address these allegations, they will organize mass protests on May 19, 2026.

The coalition also demands the prosecution of individuals found culpable and the recovery of the misappropriated funds, highlighting the importance of the USPF for underserved communities in Nigeria.