The Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has recently issued a significant judgment ordering the disclosure of the spending details of over N200bn public funds collected by the government of former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. The funds in question were received from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) fund and allocations from the Federation Accounts between 2015 and 2019. The court ruling came in response to a Freedom of Information suit filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).
Background:
The judgment, delivered by Honourable Justice Daniel Osiagor, upheld SERAP’s right to inquire and seek information about how public institutions manage public funds. This landmark decision emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in the governance of public institutions.
Details of the Judgment:
The court directed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to disclose budgetary allocations and actual spending by the Okowa government between 2015 and 2019. This includes specific projects aimed at improving primary education in Delta State and their respective locations.
The court further ordered the Delta State government to reveal how over N7.28 billion received from UBEC between 2015 and 2017 and N213 billion received from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) in 2018, at an average of N17.8 billion monthly, was utilized.
Additionally, the government is required to disclose the primary schools that benefited from projects related to free and quality primary education in Delta State. Information about indirect costs, such as uniforms, exercise books, and transport expenses for students and their parents, is also to be disclosed.
Furthermore, the court sought details on the steps taken by the Delta State Government to improve the overall welfare of children in primary schools across the state, including information about any fee-free programs that may have been implemented.
SERAP’s Stance:
SERAP, in response to the court’s ruling, urged Governor Oborevwori to promptly obey and respect the judgment. They have also called for the former State governor Ifeanyi Okowa to be invited to explain the spending of the education funds. SERAP emphasizes the importance of complying with the judgment as it sends a powerful message to politicians and others that they will be held accountable even when out of office.
Conclusion:
The court’s decision to order the disclosure of the spending details of the N200bn public funds received by the former Delta State Government sheds light on the need for transparency and accountability in managing public funds. This judgment is a significant step towards ensuring that public officials are held responsible for their actions, and it serves as an encouragement for citizens to demand more openness in governance.
As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial for the Delta State Government to adhere to the court’s order and provide the requested information promptly. This will not only demonstrate commitment to good governance but will also set a precedent for increased accountability in the management of public funds across the nation.
