The Socio‑Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against 35 state governors in Nigeria, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, alleging failure to account for the spending of roughly N14 trillion in fuel‑subsidy savings. SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, says the suit also names the office of the Accountant‑General of the Federation as a respondent. The case, lodged in the Federal High Court in Lagos, seeks to compel the governors and the FCT minister to disclose how the increased allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) have been used since the fuel subsidy was removed in May 2023.
SERAP argues that, despite the substantial rise in allocations, the funds have not translated into improved access to quality healthcare, education, and other basic services for poor and vulnerable Nigerians. The rights group demands that the court order the respondents to reveal details of the spending of the increased FAAC allocations, including the locations of any projects executed. It contends that the additional funds, generated by the removal of the fuel subsidy, should be spent solely for the benefit of those bearing the brunt of the policy.
According to SERAP, FAAC distributed N28.78 trillion to the three tiers of government in 2024, a 79 % increase over the previous year. State governments’ allocations rose by 45.5 % to N5.22 trillion, with monthly distributions in 2025 exceeding N1.6 trillion. Yet, despite this influx of public money, many states reportedly still owe civil servants’ salaries and pensions, and millions of Nigerians remain denied access to basic public services.
The lawsuit underscores the need for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds, particularly those derived from fuel‑subsidy savings. SERAP maintains that Nigerians have a right to know how these funds are spent and that the savings should directly benefit the poor and vulnerable. The case is pending, with no hearing date set.
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