The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas to disclose the exact amounts of the monthly running costs being paid to members of the National Assembly. SERAP also demanded the cessation of the practice where lawmakers allegedly fix their own salaries, allowances, and running costs, which the organization argues violates the Nigerian Constitution and the country's international obligations.
In a letter dated August 17, 2024, and signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization expressed concern over the lack of transparency and the alleged misuse of public funds by lawmakers. SERAP urged the National Assembly to promptly disclose the total amount of running costs paid to lawmakers, ensure the return of any mismanaged public funds, and refer cases of misuse to anti-corruption agencies for investigation.
The letter also highlighted the inconsistency between lawmakers' actions and their constitutional oath of office, which requires transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law. SERAP emphasized that allowing lawmakers to set their own salaries and allowances undermines public trust and is incompatible with the principles of good governance as outlined in the UN Convention against Corruption.
SERAP threatened to take legal action if the National Assembly fails to comply with its requests within seven days, stressing that such transparency is necessary to build trust in democratic institutions and ensure that public officials act in the public's interest. The organization cited recent reports and allegations, including statements from Senator Kawu Sumaila and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, to support its claims.
The call to action by SERAP is part of a broader effort to hold public officials accountable for their management of public resources and to ensure that the Nigerian legislative body adheres to the principles of integrity, honesty, and responsibility in governance.
