The Socio Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against 36 state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for their alleged failure to account for the expenditure of approximately ₦14 trillion in fuel subsidy savings.
The lawsuit also names the iffice of the accountant general of the federation as a defendant.
SERAP claims that after the removal of the fuel subsidy in May 2023, state governments and the FCT received increased monthly allocations.
However, the organization argues that this significant influx of funds has not led to improvements in the lives of impoverished Nigerians.
The case, submitted to the Federal High Court in Lagos, seeks to compel the governors and the FCT minister to publicly disclose how the funds categorized as fuel subsidy savings have been utilized.
SERAP demands comprehensive information about the projects funded by these resources, including their locations, if any projects were actually undertaken.
In its court filings, the organization noted that in 2024 alone, approximately ₦28.78 trillion was distributed by FAAC following the subsidy removal.
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It pointed out that state allocations surged, yet many states are still struggling to pay salaries and pensions.
SERAP contended that despite the rise in revenue, millions of Nigerians continue to lack access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and social welfare.
The group highlighted that several states are resorting to borrowing just to meet salary obligations, raising concerns about potential misappropriation of public funds.
SERAP emphasized that Nigerians have a legal right to know how public funds are spent and that savings from the subsidy should primarily benefit poor and vulnerable citizens who are most affected by escalating fuel prices.
The organization referenced constitutional provisions and Nigeria’s anti-corruption commitments to support its call for transparency. No hearing date has yet been set for the case.
