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The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to publish his declared assets and encouraged other public officials to follow suit.
In a press release dated December 28, 2024, SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, commended Tinubu for his recent statement during his first Presidential Media Chat, where he hinted at requesting the CCB to release his asset declarations. SERAP welcomed the development, viewing it as a positive sign of the President’s willingness to lead with transparency.
However, the organisation stressed the need for immediate action. “Your immediate action to request the CCB to publish your assets and encouraging your Vice-President, ministers, National Assembly leaders, state governors, and local government chairmen to do the same will promote public trust, transparency, and accountability,” SERAP emphasized.
SERAP also highlighted the dangers of secrecy in asset declarations, noting that it fosters corruption at all levels of government. The organisation pointed out that such secrecy enables corrupt practices in the country’s states, Federal Capital Territory, ministries, agencies, and local governments.
The group further linked transparency in asset declarations to the Supreme Court ruling of July 11, 2024, which barred state governors from controlling local government funds. SERAP urged President Tinubu to push for the immediate implementation of this ruling, as many state governors reportedly continue to divert these funds despite the court’s decision.
The press release stressed that corruption is one of the most significant threats to Nigeria’s democracy and that public trust is eroded when officials hide their assets. SERAP referenced legal provisions, including the Nigerian Constitution and various international conventions, which mandate asset declarations by public officials.
The organisation concluded by expressing hope that President Tinubu’s leadership will set a precedent for transparency and accountability throughout the Nigerian government.
“We hope that these recommendations will guide your steps in asking the CCB to publish your assets and encouraging others to do the same,” SERAP stated.