The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed deep concern over the lack of transparency and accountability in the Federal Government’s disbursement of N330 billion to 8.1 million households under the National Social Safety Net Programme. According to HURIWA, the government’s failure to provide concrete evidence of the beneficiaries and the disbursement process has raised suspicions about the potential for corruption.

Lack of Transparency Raises Concerns
HURIWA has criticized the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Coordinating Ministry for the Nigerian Economy for issuing a press statement claiming the disbursement of funds without empirical evidence to support the claim. The rights group argues that the methodology adopted by the government lacks transparency and accountability, and therefore, demands that the government publishes the identities of the beneficiaries, their locations, and the number of beneficiaries in each state or local government area.

Accusations of Corruption Against Public Office Holders
HURIWA has also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to speak out against growing accusations of corruption against some of his cabinet members, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The group cited allegations of Wike’s acquisition of exotic housing assets in the United States, worth over $6 million, which were allegedly purchased with looted public funds. HURIWA emphasized that the President’s silence on these allegations undermines his administration’s commitment to fighting corruption.

Call for Action
HURIWA is calling on the government to take immediate action to address the concerns raised and provide verifiable evidence of the disbursement of funds to poor households. The group also demands that the President directs the Minister of Finance to furnish Nigerians with concrete evidence of the disbursement of N330 billion to 8.1 million households. By doing so, the government can demonstrate its commitment to transparency and accountability and restore public trust in its anti-corruption efforts.