SERAP has initiated legal action against Nigerian governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike.
SERAP has filed a lawsuit against the 36 governors and Wike for their alleged failure to provide an account of the N5.9 trillion and $4.6 billion loans obtained by their states and the FCT. Additionally, SERAP is demanding the publication of loan agreements along with specific information regarding the projects executed using these loans.
Last month, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State revealed that the previous administration of Nasir El-Rufai left behind a significant financial burden for the state. This includes a debt of $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contractual liabilities, which has made it extremely challenging for the state to meet salary obligations.
SERAP has filed a suit numbered FHC/ABJ/CS/592/2024 at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The organization is seeking the court’s direction and compulsion for the governors and Mr. Wike to provide an account of the N5.9 trillion and $4.6 billion loans obtained by their states and the FCT. Additionally, SERAP is requesting the publication of copies of the loan agreements and information regarding the projects executed with these loans.
SERAP is also urging the court to instruct the governors and Mr. Wike to invite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) to investigate the utilization of the loans acquired by their states and the FCT.
SERAP argues in the suit that it is in the public interest to grant the reliefs sought. The Nigerian people deserve transparency and accountability when it comes to loan agreements and the utilization of funds acquired by governors and the FCT minister.
SERAP has expressed concerns about the lack of transparency in the spending of loans obtained by the governors and Mr. Wike, stating that this could have negative impacts on the fundamental interests of the citizens.
SERAP claims that several states and the FCT are allegedly misusing public funds, potentially including loans, to finance unnecessary trips, purchase luxury and armored vehicles, and support the extravagant lifestyles of politicians.
It is unfortunate that numerous states and the FCT are reportedly in arrears when it comes to paying civil servants’ salaries and pensions.
Several states have resorted to borrowing in order to cover their salary expenses. The report highlights the ongoing challenges faced by millions of Nigerians residing in the states and FCT who are still being deprived of essential public goods and services like education and healthcare.
The hearing date for the suit has not been scheduled yet.