SERAP Issues Legal Warning To Akpabio And Abbas Over NASS Expenditure Transparency

SERAP Issues Legal Warning To Akpabio And Abbas Over NASS Expenditure Transparency

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has demanded that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas disclose the exact monthly running costs for National Assembly members, which amount to millions of naira. SERAP is seeking detailed accounts of how these funds are utilized and has urged the National Assembly leadership to halt the practice of unilaterally setting their own salaries, allowances, and running costs, which contravenes the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and international obligations….. CONTINUE READING

The organization insists that running costs should not be deposited into lawmakers’ personal accounts and calls for any misuse of these funds to be reported to anti-corruption agencies for investigation and prosecution where necessary. SERAP also demands the return of any misappropriated funds and full disclosure of the total running costs paid to date.

This call for accountability follows Senator Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila’s recent revelation that Senators receive ₦21 million monthly in allowances and running costs. SERAP’s letter, dated August 17, 2024, expresses concern over the transparency of these expenditures and the practice of lawmakers determining their own compensation.

SERAP emphasizes that lawmakers’ constitutional oath requires them to ensure transparency and accountability. The organization argues that the current practices undermine public trust and are inconsistent with both constitutional requirements and Nigeria’s international commitments under the UN Convention against Corruption.

The letter underscores that effective leadership and adherence to legal standards are crucial for the National Assembly to restore public confidence and ensure proper management of public resources. SERAP warns that failure to comply with these demands within seven days will result in legal action.

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