The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to instruct Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and relevant anti-corruption agencies to investigate the allocation and use of the Ecological Fund collected by Borno State since 2001, including N816 million received from January to June 2024.
In a letter dated September 21, 2024, SERAP emphasized the need for accountability, urging that any individuals implicated in corruption face prosecution if sufficient evidence is available. The organization also requested measures to ensure victims of flooding in Borno have access to justice and effective remedies.
SERAP urged Mr. Fagbemi to collaborate with anti-corruption agencies to monitor Ecological Fund spending across all states and emergency management agencies. The letter noted the government’s obligation to address the widespread flooding and ensure that funds intended for ecological protection are not mismanaged.
The group expressed concern that funds intended for ecological projects may have been diverted or misappropriated, citing instances of mismanagement and incomplete projects. SERAP warned that funds are allegedly being used for purposes such as election campaigns.
With recent floods in Borno resulting in over 30 fatalities and affecting nearly one million residents, SERAP stressed the urgent need for transparency and accountability in the management of ecological funds. The organization pointed out that previous audits revealed significant misallocation of funds, contributing to ongoing environmental challenges and human rights violations.
SERAP called for prompt action within seven days or indicated that legal measures would be pursued to compel government compliance. The organization reiterated the need to protect the rights of flood victims and ensure access to basic necessities like food and clean water.
