The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to give a clear account of N18.6 billion allegedly missing from funds meant for the construction of the National Assembly Service Commission Office Complex.
Naijaonpoint understands that, according to the 2022 report of the Auditor-General of the Federation, the money was reportedly paid to an unnamed construction firm for the project, but there are no available records showing that the contract went through due process.
The report, published on September 9, 2025, also stated that the contract was inflated by about N6.9 billion for the conversion of a roof garden into office space without any formal approval.
In a letter dated October 18, 2025, SERAP urged the two presiding officers to reveal the identity of the company that received the payment, including its directors, shareholders, and address.
The organisation also demanded explanations on why key steps in the Procurement Act, such as advertisement, bidding, contract agreement, and needs assessment, were ignored before the payment of N18.6 billion.
The Auditor-General’s findings revealed that N11.6 billion was initially paid to an unknown company on August 11, 2020, for the construction of the complex, while another N6.9 billion was released on November 29, 2023, for the roof conversion.
Both transactions reportedly lacked Bills of Quantity, Federal Executive Council approval, or a Bureau of Public Procurement certificate of no objection.
SERAP described the situation as a breach of public trust, saying the alleged irregularities raise concerns of possible diversion or theft of public funds.
The group urged the National Assembly leadership to take immediate action by publishing the details of the contractor, accounting for the funds, and recovering any missing amount.
The rights group warned that if no steps are taken within seven days, it would seek legal action to compel Akpabio, Abbas, and the National Assembly Commission to comply with its request in the interest of transparency.
SERAP reminded the lawmakers of their constitutional duty to promote accountability and prevent corruption as required by Sections 13, 15, and 16 of the 1999 Constitution, as well as Nigeria’s obligations under the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
The organisation stressed that corruption in public institutions deprives citizens of essential services, fuels poverty, and erodes public trust in governance.
It urged the National Assembly to demonstrate genuine leadership by addressing the Auditor-General’s findings and ensuring that all responsible individuals or entities are held accountable.
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