Group Urges President to Lead Anti-Corruption Charge by Publishing Assets
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to direct the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to publicly disclose his assets. The group also urged him to encourage Vice President Kashim Shettima, ministers, National Assembly leaders, state governors, and the chairmen of Nigeria’s 774 local governments to follow suit.
In a letter dated December 28, 2024, signed by its deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP welcomed Tinubu’s recent statement during his Presidential Media Chat, where he said, “I will consider asking the CCB to release my assets.” SERAP described the move as a “significant development” and a demonstration of his willingness to promote transparency.
However, the organization emphasized that such intent would carry more weight if promptly translated into action. “Asking the CCB to publish your assets and encouraging other public officials to do the same would enhance public trust, transparency, and accountability,” SERAP stated.
The group criticized the current secrecy surrounding asset declarations by high-ranking officials, arguing that it facilitates corruption in government institutions at all levels. “This lack of transparency enables the abuse of public funds for personal gain,” the letter read, adding that public disclosure of assets would deter corrupt practices and strengthen democracy.
SERAP also stressed the importance of enforcing the Supreme Court’s July 11, 2024 decision, which barred state governors from taking over local government funds. The organization alleged that several governors continue to disregard the judgment, undermining transparency and accountability.
“Transparency in asset declarations would increase public confidence in the integrity of officials and ensure that government services are delivered honestly,” SERAP noted.
The group further highlighted Nigeria’s constitutional and international obligations regarding asset declarations, referencing provisions in the Nigerian Constitution, the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption, and the UN Convention against Corruption.
SERAP urged Tinubu to prioritize transparency and accountability at all levels of government, describing it as the foundation for a robust democracy. The organization concluded by expressing hope that the president would take the necessary steps to set an example for others, promoting good governance and the rule of law.
