The Socio‑Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against Nigeria’s Federal Government at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court of Justice, alleging that the government failed to account for a cash‑transfer programme worth N78.8 billion intended for vulnerable Nigerians.
According to the filing, the funds were earmarked for direct cash assistance to low‑income households, but SERAP says there is no transparent record of how the money was disbursed or utilized. The organization claims the lack of accounting breaches the rights of beneficiaries and undermines the government’s commitment to social protection.
SERAP’s legal action seeks a ruling from the regional court that the Federal Government provide a full accounting of the N78.8 billion, disclose the beneficiaries, and, if necessary, reimburse the unspent amount. The case was lodged in the ECOWAS Court, which has jurisdiction over human‑rights and governance issues affecting member states.
The cash‑transfer scheme is part of Nigeria’s broader effort to mitigate poverty and cushion the impact of economic shocks on its most vulnerable populations. The programme has been promoted by the government as a key component of its social safety net, especially amid rising living costs.
Should the ECOWAS Court rule in SERAP’s favour, the decision could compel the Nigerian government to improve transparency in public‑fund allocation and potentially set a precedent for accountability in future social‑welfare initiatives across the West African region.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>