NCAPT Disputes SERAP's N26.9bn USPF Misappropriation Claim

The National Coalition for Accountability and Transparency (NCAPT) has refuted the claim made by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) regarding the alleged misappropriation of N26.9 billion from the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF). SERAP had called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate the alleged diversion of these funds.

NCAPT's Executive Director, Amb Abubakar Yusuf Yaro, stated that SERAP's claims are exaggerated and lack critical context. They pointed out that the average annual allocation to the USPF during the review period was N7.5 billion, raising questions about how such a large sum could be missing.

NCAPT noted that the N13.8 billion referenced relates to operational surplus managed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and that the USPF does not retain funds. They also highlighted that prior audits conducted by the House of Representatives found no irregularities in USPF operations.

NCAPT urged the National Assembly to conduct an independent review of the allegations without external pressure.