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SERAP’s Call for Transparency in Local Government Allocations
SERAP’s Call for Transparency in Local Government Allocations
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has taken a bold step in demanding accountability from the 36 state governors in Nigeria and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike. The organization has called for transparency in the disbursement of federal allocations meant for local governments, including the FCT, and has urged for the disclosure of the actual disbursement of these allocations since the return of democracy in 1999.
In a letter dated January 27, 2024, SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of federal allocations meant for local government areas. The organization has also expressed its intention to involve the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the disbursement and spending of these allocations.
The call for transparency and accountability is not only a matter of good governance but also a fundamental right of the citizens. Transparency in the disbursement and spending of federal allocations meant for local governments is crucial to preventing corruption, building trust in democratic institutions, and strengthening the rule of law. The lack of transparency in this regard has negative impacts on the fundamental interests of citizens and the public.
According to SERAP, the 36 states in Nigeria and the federal capital territory, Abuja, have collected over N40 trillion in federal allocations meant for the 774 local government areas in the country and FCT. These figures are staggering, and the lack of transparency in the disbursement of such substantial amounts raises serious concerns about accountability and proper governance.
The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) disbursed N225.21 billion in federal allocations meant for local government areas to states in November 2023 alone. Additionally, states collected N258,810,449,711.47 in federal allocations meant for local government areas in December 2023. However, there is a lack of transparency in the actual disbursement of these allocations to the local government areas in various states.
The failure or refusal of states and the FCT to disclose the portion of federal allocations disbursed by state governors is a matter of great concern. SERAP has rightly pointed out that the public interest in publishing the information sought outweighs any considerations to withhold the information. Nigerians are entitled to the right to receive information without any interference or distortion, and the enjoyment of this right should be based on the principle of maximum disclosure.
In light of this, SERAP has urged the state governors and the Minister of the FCT to provide details of the transparency and accountability mechanisms that have been put in place to ensure that the trillions of naira of federal allocations received by their respective states are not embezzled, misappropriated, or diverted into private pockets. This is a critical step towards ensuring that public funds are used for the benefit of citizens and the development of local communities.
The demands made by SERAP are not only justified but also imperative for the promotion of good governance, transparency, and accountability. The organization has given a seven-day ultimatum for the recommended measures to be taken and has expressed its intention to take appropriate legal action if the demands are not met. This demonstrates SERAP’s commitment to upholding the public interest and holding public officials accountable for their stewardship of public funds.
It is essential for the 36 state governors and the Minister of the FCT to heed the call for transparency and accountability in the disbursement of federal allocations meant for local governments. By proactively publishing information pertaining to the actual disbursement and spending of these allocations, states and the FCT can demonstrate their commitment to good governance and the rule of law.
In conclusion, the demands made by SERAP underscore the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. The organization’s call for the disclosure of federal allocations meant for local governments and the investigation of their disbursement and spending is a significant step towards promoting good governance and preventing corruption. It is imperative for the state governors and the Minister of the FCT to respond to these demands in the public interest and uphold the principles of transparency and accountability.
The outcome of this call for accountability will not only impact the present but also shape the future of governance and public finance management in Nigeria. It is a crucial moment for the state governors and the Minister of the FCT to demonstrate their commitment to transparency and accountability and to ensure that federal allocations meant for local governments are used for the benefit of the citizens and the development of local communities.
In the spirit of promoting good governance and upholding the rule of law, it is imperative for the relevant authorities to comply with the demands made by SERAP. Transparency and accountability in the disbursement of federal allocations meant for local governments are essential for building trust in democratic institutions and ensuring the proper management of public funds. It is time for the state governors and the Minister of the FCT to embrace this call for accountability and demonstrate their commitment to serving the public interest.
The demands made by SERAP are not only in the interest of the organization but also in the interest of every Nigerian citizen. It is a call for transparency, accountability, and good governance, and it is a call that cannot be ignored. The actions taken by the state governors and the Minister of the FCT in response to these demands will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the state of governance and public finance management in Nigeria. It is a moment that calls for decisive action and a commitment to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
In conclusion, the demands made by SERAP are a testament to the organization’s dedication to promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability. The call for transparency in the disbursement of federal allocations meant for local governments is a critical step towards ensuring that public funds are used for the benefit of citizens and the development of local communities. It is imperative for the state governors and the Minister of the FCT to respond to these demands in the public interest and uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. The outcome of this call for accountability will undoubtedly shape the future of governance and public finance management in Nigeria, and it is a moment that calls for resolute action and a commitment to serving the public interest.
In light of the foregoing, it is imperative for the state governors and the Minister of the FCT to comply with the demands made by SERAP and take the necessary steps to ensure transparency and accountability in the disbursement of federal allocations meant for local governments. This is not only a legal obligation but also a moral imperative for the promotion of good governance and the proper management of public funds. The actions taken in response to these demands will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the state of governance and public finance management in Nigeria, and it is a moment that calls for an unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability.
