The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to Nigeria’s 36 state governors, demanding accountability for the spending of public funds designated as “security votes” since May 29, 2023. SERAP emphasizes the need for transparency to ensure the security of life and property for Nigerians.
In the requests, dated June 28, 2025, and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization highlights the urgent public interest in accounting for these funds, especially in light of ongoing insecurity, including the recent Benue massacre. SERAP notes that the escalating insecurity is severely impacting vulnerable populations, leading to increased poverty and human rights violations.
SERAP argues that the Nigerian Constitution does not support the opaque spending of public funds. They assert that despite the billions allocated yearly as security votes, many governors are failing to fulfill their constitutional obligation to guarantee the security and welfare of their constituents.
The FOI requests emphasize that the governors’ responsibilities are intertwined with their duty to combat corruption and abuse of office. SERAP points out that in 2021 alone, governors collected over N375 billion in the name of security votes, yet many have not ensured adequate security.
SERAP calls on governors to invite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to jointly investigate the spending of security votes. They state that the Supreme Court has affirmed the applicability of the Freedom of Information Act to public records, including those maintained by state governors.
The organization warns that failure to account for these funds would represent a violation of public trust and constitutional obligations. They urge governors to disclose spending details, fostering transparency and accountability in governance.
SERAP concludes by stating that the public interest in this matter outweighs any reasons to withhold information, and they expect responses within seven days. If governors do not comply, SERAP is prepared to pursue legal action to ensure accountability.
