In November 2016 President Muhammadu Buhari authorised the payment of 522.74 billion to 36 states, to settle arrears of workers’ salaries, retirees’ pension and gratuities. Nigerians, civil society and the media asked for details about how their governors would spent the money, but the federal government gave no details on tha matters. After many months the media found out that only few states had used the funds for the suggested purpose, and last week, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) confirmed that it was investigating suspected misuse of the funds. The states were in particular suspected of concealing the payment from the public and the civil servants. Only a few states like Kaduna and Plateau, voluntarily admitted receiving payments. The financial minister, Mrs. Adeosun, explained that there was an agreement with states that a first ammount of each state’s claim would be paid, but the balances due would be paid when the country’s financial situation improves. The executive director of SERAP (Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project) Adetokunbo Mumuni, said states should be compelled to publish what they collected and details of spending, either on a dedicated website or other media, to enable the people know what the monies were used for.
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