The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, has filed a lawsuit against the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, seeking disclosure of the limits applicable to political contributions ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general election.
The suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, asks the court to compel INEC to disclose whether it has prescribed contribution limits under Section 91 of the Electoral Act 2026 and, if so, make those limits publicly available.
SERAP is also seeking information on measures taken by the electoral commission to communicate the applicable rules to political parties, candidates, donors and members of the public.
The action comes as campaign finance is expected to receive increased scrutiny ahead of the January presidential and National Assembly elections.
Campaign Finance Under Scrutiny
Rules governing campaign financing are intended to establish boundaries around how money can be raised and spent during elections.
Their effectiveness, however, depends on disclosure, monitoring and enforcement.
For voters and civil-society organisations, greater transparency can make it easier to understand how political campaigns are financed and identify potential violations.
For parties and donors, clearly communicated rules can also reduce uncertainty about what financial contributions are permissible.
SERAP’s lawsuit is therefore seeking clarification of the framework that will apply during the 2027 campaign.
The case also comes after INEC published the final lists of presidential and National Assembly candidates earlier this month. The presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16.
The court will ultimately determine the merits of SERAP’s application and any obligations arising from the provisions cited in the suit.
