SERAP sue Tinubu, AGF over N-Power fraud, missing ₦57bn public funds

The allegations are based on findings from the 2021 audited report by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation, which exposed significant financial irregularities. Lateef Fagbemi has also been named as a respondent in the case.

The suit, filed last Friday at the Federal High Court in Lagos under suit number FHC/L/MISC/876/2024, seeks a court order compelling President Tinubu to direct the Attorney General to launch a comprehensive investigation into the alleged mismanagement of funds. SERAP also demands the prosecution of those implicated and the recovery of the missing public funds, provided there is sufficient evidence.

In a statement, SERAP stressed the importance of accountability, declaring, “Investigating the allegations, prosecuting those responsible, and recovering the missing ₦57 billion will send a strong message that impunity will not be tolerated.”

The group condemned the alleged misconduct as “stealing from the poor” and emphasized the need for transparency to uphold public trust.

The Auditor-General’s 2021 report detailed multiple cases of financial mismanagement within the ministry. Among the findings, over ₦54 billion earmarked for stipends for Batch C1 N-Power volunteers and trainees between August and December 2021 was reportedly unaccounted for. The report highlighted that the funds were not paid directly to beneficiaries, raising concerns about possible diversion.

In addition, over ₦2.6 billion allocated for the “home-grown school feeding program during COVID-19” was also unaccounted for, with allegations that the program was never implemented.

SERAP is calling for swift action to address the alleged irregularities, ensure accountability, and recover the funds intended to support vulnerable populations.