SERAP Sues INEC Over Alleged ₦800bn APC Campaign Fund

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has taken the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to the Federal High Court in Abuja over its alleged failure to investigate claims that governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress diverted about ₦800 billion from Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds for political and campaign activities ahead of the 2027 general elections. The suit, filed last week, seeks to compel the electoral body to examine the allegations and take action where necessary.

According to SERAP, reports in the media claimed that APC governors had been making monthly contributions from their FAAC allocations into a campaign fund meant to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid. The organisation attached a published opinion article as part of the documents submitted to the court in support of its application.

SERAP is asking the court to direct INEC to investigate the claims and obtain full details from the governors and the APC regarding the alleged campaign contributions. The organisation also wants the electoral commission to request information on the identities of donors and the lawful source of the funds involved.

In addition, SERAP is seeking an order directing INEC to begin a formal review of compliance with Section 91 of the Electoral Act by political parties and candidates, particularly regarding campaign funding and political donations during the current election cycle.

The organisation argued that the allegations raise concerns about transparency in political financing, fairness in the electoral process and the constitutional rights of Nigerians to take part in democratic governance. It maintained that unclear sources of campaign funds create opportunities for corruption and weaken public confidence in elections.

SERAP also stated that the Electoral Act gives INEC the authority to regulate political donations, demand disclosure of campaign funding and apply sanctions where violations occur. According to the organisation, the law provides penalties for individuals and political parties that exceed approved donation limits, including fines and forfeiture of excess funds.

The group further argued that where allegations involve the possible use of public funds for political purposes, INEC has a legal duty to investigate and monitor such activities under both the Constitution and the Electoral Act.

SERAP said the alleged failure of the commission to actively enforce campaign finance rules could weaken confidence in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections. As of the time the suit was announced, the Federal High Court had not fixed a date for hearing the case.