The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a 7-day ultimatum to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, and other governors to disclose copies of loan agreements and expenditure reports on N5.9 trillion and $4.6 billion loans secured by their states and the FCT. SERAP’s request also demands transparency on the projects executed with the loans, urging the governors to involve the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for investigations.
The call from SERAP comes after Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State revealed that the past administration left the state with a significant debt, making it challenging to meet financial obligations. In a statement dated March 30, 2024, signed by SERAP’s deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization stressed the importance of public accountability in managing public funds, emphasizing the need for transparency to build trust in democratic institutions and prevent corruption.
SERAP highlighted concerns over alleged mismanagement and misuse of public funds by states, leading to salary delays and inadequate provision of public services. The organization emphasized the right of Nigerians to know how loans are utilized by state governments, calling for increased transparency and accountability to curb corruption and promote good governance.
Lastly, SERAP underscored the significance of citizens’ engagement in monitoring government activities and budget utilization, aligning with democratic principles of openness, transparency, and accountability. The organization urged state authorities to comply promptly with the requests to foster public trust, prevent financial abuse, and uphold international standards of anticorruption and human rights laws.
