Quick Summary:
SERAP files a lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and the National Assembly Service Commission over alleged mismanagement of N18.6 billion meant for the NASC office complex.
SERAP Takes Legal Action Over Alleged Fund Mismanagement
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) over alleged discrepancies in the handling of N18.6 billion allocated for the construction of the NASC office complex.
The case arises from findings in the 2022 annual report of the Auditor-General of the Federation, published in September 2025, which flagged irregular payments and possible contract inflation.
Allegations and Audit Findings
According to SERAP, the Auditor-General’s report revealed that over N11.6 billion was paid to an unnamed construction firm within a 24-month period, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
The organization further alleged that the contract value was inflated by N6.9 billion, suggesting gross financial mismanagement and potential abuse of public funds.
SERAP’s Legal Demands
In its suit, SERAP is seeking a court order compelling Akpabio, Abbas, and the NASC to:
- Provide a detailed account of how the N18.6 billion was utilized.
- Disclose the identity of the construction company awarded the contract.
- Release all relevant project documents, including assessment reports, bid details, contract agreements, and Federal Executive Council approvals.
SERAP argues that public access to this information is a constitutional right and a critical step toward transparency in the management of national resources.
Breach of Public Trust and Anti-Corruption Standards
The organization contends that the alleged mishandling of funds violates constitutional principles, breaches public trust, and contravenes international anti-corruption standards to which Nigeria is a signatory.
SERAP emphasized that Nigerians have a right to know how public funds are spent, particularly in projects financed by taxpayers.
The group stated that transparency and accountability are essential to strengthening democratic institutions and preventing systemic corruption.
Background and Previous Warnings
This legal action follows SERAP’s October 2025 public call urging Akpabio and Abbas to address concerns over the alleged missing funds.
The organization’s persistence underscores its commitment to promoting accountability, preventing corruption, and ensuring responsible management of public resources in Nigeria.
The case adds to a growing list of transparency-related lawsuits filed by SERAP against government institutions, reflecting its ongoing campaign for fiscal responsibility and open governanceSEO Title:
SERAPNASCFundsCase2025: SERAP Sues National Assembly Over N18.6 Billion Project Fund Irregularities