…warns of legal action over alleged fund diversion

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has demanded full disclosure from Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, on how N18.6 billion allocated for the construction of the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) office complex was utilised.

In a statement signed by Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP’s Deputy Director, and released on Sunday, the group called on the legislative leaders to publish details of the company that received the funds, including its directors, shareholders, and registered address.

According to SERAP, the demand follows findings from the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation’s 2022 annual report, released on September 9, 2025, which raised red flags over the management of the funds.

“The National Assembly Service Commission allegedly paid over N11.6 billion to an unknown construction company for the construction of its complex within 24 months. The payment was reportedly made on August 11, 2020,” the statement reads partly.

The report also alleged that the contract was inflated by over N6.9 billion, with additional funds released on November 29, 2023, for “the conversion of the roof garden to office space.”

In a statement signed by Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP alleged that both contracts were awarded without due process, no needs assessment, public bidding, newspaper advertisement, or Federal Executive Council approval — in clear violation of the Public Procurement Act.

“The Auditor-General fears that N18.6 billion of public funds budgeted for the construction and conversion projects may be missing. He wants the money accounted for,” the group stated.

SERAP expressed concern that the funds might have been misappropriated, diverted, or stolen, warning that such irregularities undermine public trust and violate constitutional and anti-corruption principles.

“Explaining the whereabouts of the missing public funds, publishing the details of the construction company which collected the money, and ensuring recovery of any missing public funds would serve the public interest,” the group added.

The organisation gave the National Assembly seven days to respond to its demand or face legal action. It also called on anti-corruption agencies to investigate the matter, prosecute any offenders, and ensure full recovery of mismanaged funds.

SERAP maintained that accountability over the N18.6 billion would help restore citizens’ confidence and reaffirm the legislature’s commitment to transparency, good governance, and the rule of law.