SERAP Asks Tinubu, Shettima, Others To Publish Their Assets

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to publish his asset declaration to promote public trust, transparency, and accountability. SERAP also called on Vice President Kashim Shettima, ministers, National Assembly leaders, state governors, and local government chairpersons to follow suit in disclosing their assets.

In an open letter dated December 28, 2024, signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the civil society group welcomed reports that President Tinubu was considering asking the CCB to publish his assets. SERAP described the move as a positive step towards transparency and expressed that it would signal the President’s commitment to addressing public interest matters related to corruption.

The organisation stressed that the continued secrecy surrounding asset declarations by high-ranking officials facilitates corruption, particularly at the state and local government levels. It argued that such secrecy provides opportunities for the misuse of public funds for personal gain, urging that transparency in asset declarations would reduce corruption across all levels of government.

SERAP also emphasized the importance of the immediate and effective implementation of the Supreme Court’s July 11, 2024, ruling, which prevents state governors from seizing local government funds. It pointed out that despite the court’s decision, many state governors still continue to withhold funds meant for local governments, which has contributed to widespread corruption.

The letter further highlighted the necessity for President Tinubu to ensure the effective enforcement of the Supreme Court ruling, stressing that non-compliance undermines public trust and exacerbates state-level corruption. SERAP argued that the President’s push for asset disclosure and adherence to the Supreme Court’s judgment would foster greater accountability in governance.

The organisation concluded by stating that corruption in Nigeria continues to undermine the country’s democracy and calls for a renewed commitment to transparency and respect for the rule of law across all levels of government. It stressed that by making asset declarations public, public officials can demonstrate integrity and help rebuild citizens’ confidence in government institutions.