RismadarVoice Reporters
May 12, 2026
ActionAid Nigeria has called for the immediate investigation and possible impeachment of any state governor found to have diverted public funds for political campaign activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The organisation raised concern over reports alleging that some serving governors may have mobilised or contributed large sums of money linked to political campaigns, warning that such actions, if proven, would amount to a serious breach of public trust and financial accountability.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, ActionAid Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, said the alleged misuse of state resources for political purposes was “outrageous, reckless, immoral, and completely unacceptable,” especially at a time of widespread economic hardship in the country.
Mamedu noted that Nigeria is currently grappling with rising debt levels, inflation, insecurity, and deteriorating public services, stressing that public office holders are not elected to convert state resources into political campaign funds.
He said, “Governors are not elected to convert state resources into political war chests. Nigerians did not vote for public officials to use taxpayer funds, security votes, procurement systems, or government assets to finance political ambitions.”
The organisation demanded that governors allegedly linked to the reports provide immediate and transparent explanations regarding the source of the funds, insisting that Nigerians deserve clarity on whether public resources were involved directly or indirectly.
ActionAid also called on anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), alongside State Houses of Assembly, to launch urgent investigations into the allegations.
The group further urged that any official found guilty should face strict sanctions, including impeachment, prosecution, recovery of diverted funds, and disqualification from holding future public office.
Mamedu warned that misuse of public resources for political advantage undermines democratic integrity and gives incumbents unfair leverage over other political actors, particularly ahead of elections.
He added that strong enforcement mechanisms are necessary to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy, citing international examples where public officials accused of similar abuses face swift investigations and consequences.
ActionAid also called on citizens, civil society organisations, and whistleblowers to remain vigilant, stressing that the protection of public resources cannot be left to institutions alone.
The organisation maintained that strengthening accountability in public finance management is critical to ensuring fairness, transparency, and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.
