The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Nigeria’s 36 state governors and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike to disclose detailed spending records of an estimated N14 trillion in fuel subsidy savings received from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) since mid-2023. In Freedom of Information (FoI) requests dated October 4, 2025, signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the group demanded specifics on projects funded, their locations, implementation status, and completion reports.
SERAP also urged the leaders to outline plans for future subsidy savings, including details of intended projects, and to invite the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to monitor the funds to prevent diversion. The group highlighted that despite the increased FAAC allocations, access to basic services like healthcare and education remains poor for vulnerable Nigerians, with many states reportedly spending on lavish lifestyles, unnecessary travel, and luxury vehicles.
“Transparency in these funds is critical to avoid double jeopardy for Nigerians bearing the brunt of subsidy removal,” SERAP stated, noting widespread poverty and underdevelopment in many states. The requests emphasized that opacity in spending fuels risks of mismanagement and corruption, undermining public trust.
SERAP cited legal obligations under the Nigerian Constitution, the Freedom of Information Act, and the UN Convention against Corruption, which mandate accountability in public fund management. The group referenced a Supreme Court ruling affirming that the FoI Act applies to states, rejecting governors’ claims of exemption. “Nigerians have a right to know how these savings are spent,” SERAP said, warning that failure to comply within seven days could lead to legal action.
The group noted that FAAC distributed N28.78 trillion in 2024, a 79% increase from the previous year, with state allocations rising 45.5% to N5.22 trillion. Yet, many states reportedly owe salaries and pensions, and millions lack access to basic services. SERAP urged the governors and Wike to uphold the Supreme Court’s ruling and provide clear accounts to ensure the funds benefit Nigerians.
