ActionAid Slams ₦135bn Election Litigation Budget Plan

ActionAid Nigeria condemns ₦135bn litigation budget, warning it signals flawed elections and misplaced priorities over transparency and reforms.

A wave of criticism has followed the Federal Government’s decision to allocate ₦135.22 billion for post-election litigation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Civil society organisation ActionAid Nigeria described the move as excessive and troubling, warning that it reflects weak electoral governance and misplaced national priorities.

In a statement, the group argued that the allocation suggests an expectation of widespread electoral disputes instead of efforts to ensure credible and transparent elections.

“This is not just a budgetary concern; it is a governance crisis,” the organisation said, adding that the scale of the allocation is unprecedented compared to previous years.

Data from Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) showed litigation costs were about ₦2.1 billion in 2022 and ₦3.08 billion in 2023, making the proposed ₦135 billion allocation a sharp increase.

Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, warned that the development reflects a shift toward managing electoral crises rather than preventing them.

He highlighted gaps in Nigeria’s electoral framework, including uncertainties around electronic transmission of results, noting that reforms in this area could reduce disputes and strengthen public trust.

The organisation also criticised the allocation as a misalignment of priorities, especially amid economic hardship, insecurity, and underfunded public services.

It warned that such spending could burden the judiciary, delay justice, and increase the cost of political participation.

ActionAid Nigeria called on Bola Tinubu to review the budget and redirect funds toward strengthening electoral systems before elections.

“The real test of electoral integrity is not how many cases are won in court, but how few disputes arise,” the group stated.