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The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, to investigate allegations that governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) diverted about N800 billion from Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds for political and campaign activities linked to the 2027 elections.
In a statement on Sunday 2026, and signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation urged INEC to “promptly, thoroughly, impartially, independently, transparently and effectively investigate” the claims.
SERAP also asked the commission to demand full disclosure from the governors and the APC regarding contributions allegedly made into a dedicated campaign fund, including the identities of donors and the lawful origin of the money.
The organisation further requested that INEC work with anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies to enforce sanctions where violations are established, including prosecution, fines, and forfeiture of unlawful contributions.
SERAP maintained that the allegations raise serious concerns about campaign finance transparency, electoral fairness, and the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
According to the group, “opaque political financing remains a major entry point for corruption and a threat to democratic legitimacy,” stressing that Nigerians have a right to know who funds political parties and candidates seeking public office.
SERAP warned that the alleged diversion of public funds could undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections if left unchecked. The organisation argued that the reported scale of the alleged deductions from FAAC allocations provides “a reasonable basis for INEC to activate its constitutional and statutory mandates.”
The rights group referenced Section 91 of the Electoral Act 2022, noting that the provision empowers INEC to set limits on political donations, demand disclosure of contributions and sources of funding, and impose sanctions on violators.
SERAP noted that political parties found guilty of exceeding donation limits could face fines of up to N10 million alongside forfeiture of excess funds, while individuals may be fined up to five times the amount contributed above the legal threshold.
The organisation also cited constitutional and international obligations, including provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the United Nations Convention against Corruption, which require transparency, accountability, and fairness in elections.
SERAP warned that any misuse of state resources for political advantage would amount to “a grave violation” of democratic standards and electoral credibility.
The group gave INEC seven days to act on its demands, warning that it would pursue legal action if the commission failed to respond.
