In a startling revelation, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called for an explanation regarding the ₦1.3 billion allocated to a seemingly non-existent presidential council in Nigeria's 2026 budget. This demand was directed at Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, who are urged to clarify the legitimacy of this funding. SERAP has indicated potential legal action if a satisfactory response is not provided, highlighting concerns over transparency and accountability in government spending.
The budgetary allocation has raised eyebrows, as no official record of such a council exists, prompting SERAP's assertion that the funding could be a case of misappropriation. “We must ensure that public funds are used for the benefit of the people and not squandered on ghost entities,” stated SERAP’s Executive Director, Adetokunbo Mumuni. This situation underscores a broader issue of governance in Nigeria, where budgetary discrepancies have historically led to public mistrust.
As the pressure mounts on Akpabio and Abbas, the outcome of this inquiry could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria's political landscape and the administration's commitment to fiscal responsibility.