SERAP Drags Senate President Akpabio To Court Over Budget Padding, Senator Ningi’s Suspension

SERAP Drags Senate President Akpabio To Court Over Budget Padding, Senator Ningi’s Suspension

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has initiated legal action against Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the failure to investigate and prosecute alleged N3.7 trillion budget padding. Additionally, the lawsuit seeks the reinstatement of Senator Abdul Ningi, who exposed the budgetary irregularities….READ ALSO SERAP Gives Uba Sani, Makinde, Wike, Adeleke, And Others Seven Days To Publish And Account For Loans

In the lawsuit filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja, SERAP seeks an order of mandamus compelling Akpabio to refer the alleged budget padding to anti-corruption agencies for investigation and prosecution. The organization also demands Akpabio to reinstate Senator Ningi, who was suspended from the Senate for whistleblowing on the padded budget.

SERAP contends that directing Akpabio to take these actions aligns with Nigeria’s Constitution and international obligations. The organization argues that whistleblower protection and transparency are essential for combating corruption and ensuring accountability in public governance.

The lawsuit highlights flaws in the suspension process of Senator Ningi, characterizing it as retaliatory. It emphasizes the duty of the National Assembly, including the Senate, to adhere to constitutional provisions and international commitments against corruption.

SERAP’s legal action underscores the importance of upholding transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in Nigeria’s governance. It calls for decisive measures to address budget padding and corruption, which have adverse effects on public welfare and development.

As the case unfolds, it underscores the imperative of robust oversight and adherence to legal and ethical standards in Nigeria’s legislative processes and public administration.