The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to launch a comprehensive investigation into the alleged misappropriation of over N57 billion from the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in 2021. The funds, according to the recent 2021 audited report by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation, were meant for various social welfare and poverty reduction programs, including those targeting vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
SERAP, a well-known watchdog group advocating for transparency and good governance, emphasized that the suspected financial discrepancies could have a devastating impact on millions of Nigerians who rely on government assistance for basic needs. The organization further alleged that corruption within the ministry may have undermined the effectiveness of critical initiatives, such as the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP), which includes efforts like the Home-Grown School Feeding Program, Conditional Cash Transfer, and other social safety net schemes aimed at alleviating poverty.
Moreover, SERAP pointed out that the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs is not the only government body implicated in questionable financial practices. The group referenced other ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) where similar financial misconduct is suspected. Citing the Auditor-General’s report, SERAP disclosed that hundreds of billions of naira are reportedly unaccounted for, raising concerns about a systemic culture of corruption and mismanagement in the public sector.
To address these allegations, SERAP urged President Tinubu to prioritize anti-corruption reforms by directing the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), as well as relevant anti-corruption agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the alleged misappropriations. SERAP emphasized that the investigations must be swift, transparent, and aimed at bringing any culprits to justice, regardless of their status or political connections.
The organization's statement underscored the need for President Tinubu's administration to demonstrate a strong commitment to combating corruption, especially in a country where financial scandals have often been met with inaction or light punishments. “Nigerians are eager to see decisive steps taken to recover stolen funds and ensure they are used for their intended purposes—supporting the poor and vulnerable,” SERAP declared in its public appeal.
SERAP's call comes at a time when public confidence in the government's ability to manage public resources is at a low point. Many Nigerians, struggling with economic challenges, are closely watching how the new administration will handle this case, which is seen as a litmus test for its willingness to tackle corruption head-on. President Tinubu, who campaigned on a platform of accountability and economic reform, has yet to officially respond to SERAP’s demands.
The allegations of missing funds in the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry are part of broader concerns over the handling of social welfare budgets in Nigeria, particularly under the previous administration. Critics argue that the ministry, which plays a crucial role in supporting Nigeria's poorest citizens, has not been sufficiently transparent in its operations, leading to persistent claims of fraud and financial mismanagement.
SERAP has warned that if President Tinubu's government fails to act decisively, it may consider taking legal action to compel the authorities to fulfill their obligations. “The era of impunity must end,” the group said, urging the government to seize this opportunity to restore trust in Nigeria’s institutions and prove that no one is above the law.
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