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Tag: CISLAC

  • Prioritise key legislative reforms, CISLAC urges lawmakers

    Prioritise key legislative reforms, CISLAC urges lawmakers

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has urged the 10th National Assembly to prioritise governance, accountability, and key reforms as it resumes legislative duties for this year.

    The rights group warned against distractions from early electioneering ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

    A statement on Monday signed by Executive Director, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), described 2026 as a critical year for both the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration and the legislature, noting that Nigerians expect concrete results from policies introduced since 2023.

    He cautioned that legislative productivity often declines in pre-election periods, warning that proposals to hold general elections as early as November 2026 could heighten public anxiety and undermine governance.

    According to CISLAC, Nigeria’s economic challenges, insecurity, rising debt, and declining public trust require a focused, responsive, and accountable National Assembly, not one distracted by political ambitions or perceived as a rubber stamp for the executive.

    The organisation outlined key priorities for lawmakers in 2026, including sustained participation in plenary and committee work; expedited passage of critical reforms, especially electoral, economic, security, and governance bills; and stronger oversight of budget implementation, public procurement, and public funds.

    Read Also: Corruption fuelling insecurity in Nigeria, CISLAC warns

    Rafsanjani stressed that electoral reform remains a major public demand following the 2023 polls and should not be delayed.

    CISLAC also warned lawmakers against abandoning legislative responsibilities ahead of the official campaign period, urging them to uphold integrity, discipline, and public interest.

    The group reaffirmed its readiness to engage with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to advance reforms that strengthen democracy, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.

  • CISLAC demands transparency over tax law controversy

    CISLAC demands transparency over tax law controversy

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called for transparency following allegations that the tax law assented to by the Presidency differs from the version passed by the National Assembly.

    In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC said clarity is necessary to safeguard the integrity of the law-making process and public confidence.

    The organisation noted that tax laws have wide implications for citizens, businesses, sub-national governments and the economy, warning that uncertainty could affect investor confidence and accountability, especially as a new tax regime is set to take effect.

    CISLAC recalled that the law emerged from extensive consultations involving civil society groups, professional bodies, the private sector, labour unions, local governments and technical experts.

    It urged the Presidency to publish the version of the law it assented to alongside the copy passed by the National Assembly to allow verification. 

    Read Also: CISLAC seeks removal of fossil fuel tax incentives

    The group also called on the National Assembly to exercise its oversight role to confirm that the assented law reflects legislative intent.

    CISLAC said any discrepancy should be resolved through constitutional means, including re-transmission of the correct bill or judicial interpretation where required. It also recommended stronger safeguards such as digital tracking of bills and public access to enrolled legislation.

    The organisation said it will continue to engage stakeholders to promote transparency, due process and the rule of law.

  • Corruption fuelling insecurity in Nigeria, CISLAC warns

    Corruption fuelling insecurity in Nigeria, CISLAC warns

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has warned that corruption remains a major driver of insecurity across Nigeria.

    In a statement to mark the United Nations (UN) Anti-Corruption Day, CISLAC’s Executive Director and Head of Transparency International in Nigeria, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, said corruption was weakening the country’s security system despite years of heavy spending on defence and internal security.

    The organisation said Nigeria’s struggles with terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, militancy, and organised crime have been worsened by corruption embedded across the security sector.

    It noted that defence procurement, recruitment, welfare administration, intelligence sharing, and operations were all affected.

    CISLAC said security funds were often lost to inflated contracts, poor procurement practices, and diversion of resources, leaving security personnel under-equipped and poorly motivated.

    It added that families of officers killed in service were frequently denied their entitlements, further damaging morale.

    The group also raised concerns over corrupt recruitment practices that place unqualified individuals in sensitive positions, as well as nepotism and unlawful tenure extensions by senior officials.

    It said the misuse of security privileges, where some individuals receive excessive protection while citizens remain exposed, reflected deep inequality and mismanagement.

    CISLAC criticised weak oversight by the National Assembly and poor accountability within the security sector. It said the lack of coordination and intelligence sharing among agencies was creating gaps exploited by criminal groups. The group further condemned routine corruption in law enforcement, including illegal payments at roadblocks.

    It warned that the spread of small arms and light weapons remained a serious threat, noting that Nigeria was estimated to hold about 70 per cent of illicit weapons in West Africa in 2021.

    CISLAC linked this to concerns over terrorist financing, which contributed to Nigeria’s ranking as eighth among the world’s most terrorism-affected countries in the 2024 Global Terrorism Index.

    The organisation called for urgent security sector and anti-corruption reforms, urging the Federal Government, National Assembly, and security agencies to ensure transparency in defence spending. It demanded stronger legislative oversight, independent audits of defence procurement, and strict punishment for officers involved in corruption.

    CISLAC also called for improved welfare and equipment for security personnel, better intelligence sharing, and protection for whistle-blowers.

    It said Nigeria cannot defeat insecurity without tackling corruption in the security sector, adding that increased spending will not deliver results without accountability.

    The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and citizens to promote reforms that strengthen security and rebuild public trust.

  • ‘Stop fossil fuel incentives to drive energy transition’

    ‘Stop fossil fuel incentives to drive energy transition’

    For Nigeria to attract investment in the renewable energy sector that will boost socioeconomic development, and aid transition to renewable energy, the country must remove all tax credits on fossil fuel.

    This was the position of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiatives (NEITI) and other stakeholders at the launch of a report titled “Assessing the Role of Tax Incentives in Nigeria’s Fossil Fuel Industry: Implications for Energy Transition, Policy Direction and the Path to a Sustainable Future” in Abuja, yesterday.

    Organised by CISLAC, the forum decried the abuse of the tax incentives in the fossil fuel imdustry, noting how benefitting firms failed to do impactful developmental projects despite the billions they saved from tax holidays.

    In his welcome address, Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsajani, commended Nigeria for showing commitment to reversing the devastating impacts of climate change by establishing institutions such as the Energy Transition Office and adopting the Energy Transition Plan.

    READ ALSO: Why petrol prices are high despite cheaper crude

    He argued that continued incentives for fossil fuel investments contradict the country’s net-zero emission target, noting that expanding investments in oil while providing tax reliefs to fossil operators undermined efforts toward building a sustainable green economy.

    He stressed that government fiscal regimes were powerful tools that can either accelerate or hinder the nation’s energy transition, adding that maintaining incentives for fossil fuel production entrenches dependence on carbon-based energy sources, putting Nigeria’s 2060 net-zero emission goal at risk. He urged policymakers to realign fiscal policies to discourage fossil fuel expansion and promote clean, renewable energy sources.

    The CISLAC boss explained that the report, developed through extensive desk reviews of laws, fiscal instruments, and international policy literature, critically examines how tax incentives sustain the fossil fuel sector and distort energy transition objectives. He said the study situates Nigeria’s approach within the global context, where many countries are phasing out fossil fuel subsidies in favor of renewable energy investments.

    Rafsanjani emphasized that the report recommended a recalibration of Nigeria’s fiscal policies to support a just and inclusive energy transition.

    The proposed reforms include phasing out fossil fuel tax incentives, improving tax expenditure reporting and accountability, and mobilizing domestic resources to fund renewable energy projects. It also calls for international collaboration in securing climate finance and technical support for economies reliant on fossil fuels.

    As part of its advocacy, the CISLAC boss urged greater transparency in tax incentive administration, emphasizing that incentives should align with Nigeria’s development and climate goals. Rafsanjani said fiscal reforms must focus on creating an enabling environment for renewable energy investments while ensuring that energy access remains inclusive and equitable for all Nigerians.

    He commended the Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA) and the Energy Transition Funds for supporting the research and advocacy initiative, as well as Professor Sabiu Bariki Sani of the University of Abuja for leading the study. Rafsanjani expressed hope that the report would serve as a valuable policy reference for government and stakeholders in designing fiscal regimes that promote decarbonization, energy inclusion, and sustainable national development.

    In his goodwill message, Executive Secretary, Nigeria Extractive Industries  Transparency Initiatives (NEITI)  Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, commended CISLAC for its research on the role of tax incentives in Nigeria’s fossil fuel industry, describing it as a timely contribution to the national debate on energy transition and fiscal reform.

    He highlighted that Nigeria faces a dual challenge of declining hydrocarbon revenues and inadequate investment in renewable energy, stressing the need for a fiscally smart, socially just, and economically inclusive transition.

    Dr. Orji noted that many existing tax incentives in the fossil fuel sector no longer serve national priorities and should be reviewed or removed to support Nigeria’s push for a diversified, low-carbon economy.

    “The final draft report of this study which we are currently reviewing as we speak has already alerted the nation that without a well-managed fiscal transition, Nigeria risks facing a dual challenge- declining hydrocarbon revenues and insufficient investment in cleaner energy alternatives.

    “The preliminary findings so far point to the possible reality that the path to a low-carbon future must be fiscally smart, socially just, and economically inclusive,” said Orji.

    He outlined transparency, fiscal coherence and just transition as three key policy direction the government should look into.

    “The real costs of tax incentives and subsidies must be publicly disclosed and justified. Reforms under the new Tax and Revenue Reforms Act should ensure incentives deliver measurable public benefits, and communities and workers reliant on extractives must be supported with alternatives and retraining,” he said.

    Orji reaffirmed NEITI’s commitment to working with CISLAC and other stakeholders to promote fiscal transparency, climate accountability, and data-driven oversight in achieving a fair and sustainable energy transition.

  • CISLAC seeks removal of fossil fuel tax incentives

    CISLAC seeks removal of fossil fuel tax incentives

    For Nigeria to attract investment in the renewable energy sector to boost socioeconomic development and aid the transition to renewable energy, the country must remove all tax credits on fossil fuels.

    This was the position of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiatives (NEITI) and other stakeholders at the launch of a report, titled: “Assessing the Role of Tax Incentives in Nigeria’s Fossil Fuel Industry: Implications for Energy Transition, Policy Direction and the Path to a Sustainable Future,” in Abuja, yesterday.

    Organised by CISLAC, the forum decried the abuse of the tax incentives in the fossil fuel industry, noting how benefitting firms failed to do impactful developmental projects despite the billions they saved from tax holidays.

    In his welcome address, Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsajani, commended Nigeria for showing commitment to reversing the devastating impacts of climate change by establishing institutions such as the Energy Transition Office and adopting the Energy Transition Plan.

    He argued that continued incentives for fossil fuel investments contradict the country’s net-zero emission target, noting that expanding investments in oil while providing tax reliefs to fossil operators undermined efforts toward building a sustainable green economy.

    He stressed that government fiscal regimes were powerful tools that can either accelerate or hinder the nation’s energy transition, adding that maintaining incentives for fossil fuel production entrenches dependence on carbon-based energy sources, putting Nigeria’s 2060 net-zero emission goal at risk. He urged policymakers to realign fiscal policies to discourage fossil fuel expansion and promote clean, renewable energy sources.

    Read Also: ‘Free eye operation to continue dad’s philanthropy’

    The CISLAC boss explained that the report, developed through extensive desk reviews of laws, fiscal instruments, and international policy literature, critically examines how tax incentives sustain the fossil fuel sector and distort energy transition objectives. He said the study situates Nigeria’s approach within the global context, where many countries are phasing out fossil fuel subsidies in favor of renewable energy investments.

    Rafsanjani emphasized that the report recommended a recalibration of Nigeria’s fiscal policies to support a just and inclusive energy transition.

    The proposed reforms include phasing out fossil fuel tax incentives, improving tax expenditure reporting and accountability, and mobilizing domestic resources to fund renewable energy projects. It also calls for international collaboration in securing climate finance and technical support for economies reliant on fossil fuels.

    As part of its advocacy, the CISLAC boss urged greater transparency in tax incentive administration, emphasizing that incentives should align with Nigeria’s development and climate goals. Rafsanjani said fiscal reforms must focus on creating an enabling environment for renewable energy investments while ensuring that energy access remains inclusive and equitable for all Nigerians.

    He hailed the Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA) and the Energy Transition Funds for supporting the research and advocacy initiative, as well as Professor Sabiu Bariki Sani of the University of Abuja for leading the study. Rafsanjani expressed hope that the report would serve as a valuable policy reference for government and stakeholders in designing fiscal regimes that promote decarbonization, energy inclusion, and sustainable national development.

    In his goodwill message, Executive Secretary, Nigeria Extractive Industries  Transparency Initiatives (NEITI)  Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, commended CISLAC for its research on the role of tax incentives in Nigeria’s fossil fuel industry, describing it as a timely contribution to the national debate on energy transition and fiscal reform.

    He highlighted that Nigeria faces a dual challenge of declining hydrocarbon revenues and inadequate investment in renewable energy, stressing the need for a fiscally smart, socially just, and economically inclusive transition.

    Dr. Orji noted that many existing tax incentives in the fossil fuel sector no longer serve national priorities and should be reviewed or removed to support Nigeria’s push for a diversified, low-carbon economy.

    “The final draft report of this study which we are currently reviewing as we speak has already alerted the nation that without a well-managed fiscal transition, Nigeria risks facing a dual challenge- declining hydrocarbon revenues and insufficient investment in cleaner energy alternatives.

    “The preliminary findings so far point to the possible reality that the path to a low-carbon future must be fiscally smart, socially just, and economically inclusive,” said Orji.

    He outlined transparency, fiscal coherence, and just transition as three key policy directions the government should look into.

    “The real costs of tax incentives and subsidies must be publicly disclosed and justified. Reforms under the new Tax and Revenue Reforms Act should ensure incentives deliver measurable public benefits, and communities and workers reliant on extractives must be supported with alternatives and retraining,” he said.

    Orji reaffirmed NEITI’s commitment to working with CISLAC and other stakeholders to promote fiscal transparency, climate accountability, and data-driven oversight in achieving a fair and sustainable energy transition.

  • Character Commission, CISLAC push for stronger equity, transparency in governance

    Character Commission, CISLAC push for stronger equity, transparency in governance

    The Federal Character Commission (FCC) has restated its commitment to promoting fairness and inclusivity in governance.

    The commission also called for stronger collaboration with civil society groups to ensure equity in appointments and distribution of resources become a reality across the country.

    Speaking during an advocacy visit by members of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) in Abuja, FCC Chairman, Ayo Omidiran,  said the commission’s constitutional mandate covers not only federal ministries and agencies but also states, local governments, and even large private corporations.

    “Our role is not just to ensure equitable representation in federal appointments, but also to guarantee fair distribution of socio-economic resources like schools, scholarships, infrastructure, and healthcare across all levels of governance. Equity must be systemic; it must flow from the centre to the grassroots,” he said.

    READ ALSO: Epidemic looms in Lagos’ largest estate as re-commissioned water project fails

    The Chairman stressed that the FCC’s work was central to sustaining national unity in a country with over 250 ethnic groups, adding that civil society organisations remain vital partners in monitoring compliance, raising alarms where imbalance occurs, and sensitizing citizens on their constitutional rights.

    On his part, CISLAC’s Executive Director and Head of Transparency International (Nigeria), Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), commended the commission for its efforts in advancing inclusivity despite challenges.

    He explained that the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the FCC in three key areas: public education on the federal character principle, ensuring transparency in federal appointments, and enhancing citizen engagement through participatory approaches.

    “Equitable representation of all groups in governance is crucial to reducing mistrust and marginalization,” Rafsanjani said. “Transparency in appointments will not only curb corruption but also enhance meritocracy and build public trust in institutions.”

    He added that CISLAC was ready to provide advocacy platforms, technical support, and strategic media partnerships to amplify FCC’s mandate and achievements.

  • CISLAC lauds EFCC over arrest of foreign crime syndicate 

    CISLAC lauds EFCC over arrest of foreign crime syndicate 

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for cracking down a cybercrime syndicate run by foreign nationals. 

    The EFCC last December raided a property in an estate in Victoria Island, Lagos, where 792 suspects, mostly foreign nationals, allegedly involved in a sophisticated cryptocurrency investment and romance scam network were apprehended. 

    The suspects include 148 Chinese, 40 Filipinos, two citizens of Kharzartan, one Pakistani, and an Indonesian, were believed to have recruited and trained young Nigerians to serve as local operatives, using their identities to mask the activities of the foreign masterminds behind the operations.

    The commission also secured a deportation order for some of the key suspects in the alleged crime who were recently convicted by the court. 

    Reacting to the landmark case, CISLAC said it represented a major breakthrough in the fight against cybercrime in Nigeria, and challenged the prevailing global narrative that disproportionately links Nigerians to internet fraud.

    Commending the EFCC for its professionalism, CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, said the arrest underscored the commission’s dedication to tackling cybercrime at the highest level, adding that it proved that these crimes are often orchestrated by international actors who exploit vulnerable Nigerians for their schemes.

    He reiterated that the operation has debunked the harmful stereotype that Nigerians are the main perpetrators of cybercrime. 

    Read Also: CISLAC demands accountability, integrity in justice sector

    “What we are seeing is a transnational criminal hierarchy where foreign masterminds manipulate and discard Nigerian youth after using them to front illegal operations,” he said.

    He also warned that such narratives have long damaged Nigeria’s international reputation and obscured the role of foreign actors who operate behind the scenes. 

    “These syndicates prey on unemployed or desperate young people by offering fake job opportunities and financial incentives, only to expose them to criminal risk while remaining in the shadows,” he said. 

    CISLAC urged the EFCC to carry out a thorough, transparent investigation to ensure all parties regardless of nationality are held accountable. 

    The organisation also called on the Nigerian government to increase investment in youth-focused initiatives, digital safeguards, and cyber-literacy programmes aimed at reducing vulnerability to online fraud and recruitment by criminal networks.

    Emphasizing that the fight against cybercrime cannot be won in isolation, CISLAC said: “Sustainable progress in combating cybercrime requires strong institutional collaboration among key agencies such as the EFCC, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Nigeria Customs Service.”

    “Enhanced immigration screening and proactive enforcement would prevent many of these actors from embedding themselves within local communities,” it stated.

    CISLAC also highlighted the role of the Nigeria Customs Service in intercepting illegal arms, equipment, and contraband used to facilitate organised crime.

    Strengthened border surveillance and inter-agency intelligence sharing, it said, would significantly support the EFCC in dismantling both foreign-led and locally-supported criminal syndicates.

    CISLAC advocated deeper engagement with international partners, multilateral institutions, and credible civil society organizations, who can provide “critical intelligence, credible data, and technical support that strengthen investigative and prosecutorial efforts”.

    In addition to law enforcement, CISLAC emphasized the importance of media and public awareness in addressing the social dimensions of cybercrime. 

    It noted with concern the growing number of Nigerian students abandoning their education in pursuit of “quick money” through online scams.

    “The media must play a proactive role in reshaping public perception and educating young Nigerians on the long-term dangers of cybercrime,” it said. 

  • CISLAC demands accountability, integrity in justice sector

    CISLAC demands accountability, integrity in justice sector

    Worried by perceived corruption in the judiciary, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has warned of its dire implications on the country’s anti-corruption efforts, democratic stability, and the rule of law.

    The rights group gave the warning in a statement signed by Executive Director, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), on Thursday.

    According to CISLAC, recent developments in the judiciary have undermined the credibility of law enforcement agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

    It expressed worry over the striking out of some high-profile corruption cases by the court in which the anti-graft agencies invested significant resources, time and effort to prosecute.

    Rafsanjani particularly raised concerns about the rulings of Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court, who, he alleged, has dismissed several high-profile corruption cases despite “impeccable evidence.”

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     He cited the case involving former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Amosu, over the alleged misappropriation of ₦22.8 billion, as well as the ruling which cleared former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, despite testimony from former Minister of Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro, that ₦2.3 billion was delivered to Fayose in cash using two private jets. Other cases struck out by Justice Aneke include a $140,000 fraud case involving Abdullahi Babalele, son-in-law of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; a ₦322 million money laundering charge against Senator Peter Nwaoboshi; and the ₦12.3 billion case against the Chairman of Honeywell Group, Dr. Oba Otudeko.

    Rafsanjani said these rulings cast a dark shadow over the justice system, recalling the controversial case of former Delta State Governor, James Ibori, who was acquitted in Nigeria but later convicted on similar charges in a foreign court.

    He stressed that no investor would be confident in a system where the judiciary is seen as unethical or as shielding corrupt public officials.

    He also called for financial scrutiny of judicial officers, urging the EFCC, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and related agencies to investigate judges whose lifestyles appear to be inconsistent with their legitimate earnings.

    The CISLAC boss alleged that some judicial officers might be benefiting from undue political influence, including luxury housing allocations, which were compromising the independence of the judiciary.

     CISLAC urged the National Judicial Council (NJC) to restore discipline, integrity, and accountability within the judiciary, stating that the Council must not be silent while public confidence in the courts erodes. It also called on the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to enforce regular and transparent asset declaration by all public officials, including judges and judicial officers, as required by law.

     “The judiciary must rise above allegations of inducement and partisanship,” Rafsanjani said. “Nigerians deserve a justice system that upholds the rule of law and protects the rights of the people, not one that serves the interests of the powerful. If the judiciary fails, democracy and justice are both at risk,” it said.

     CISLAC concluded with a strong call for collective civic vigilance, urging citizens, the media, and civil society to hold the judiciary to higher standards of transparency and accountability.

    “The time to act is now before judicial credibility is irreparably damaged in the eyes of Nigerians and the international community,” it said.

  • CISLAC, ICPC seek full implementation of Supreme Court ruling on LG autonomy

    CISLAC, ICPC seek full implementation of Supreme Court ruling on LG autonomy

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have called for full implementation of the Supreme Court ruling on financial autonomy for local governments.

    Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), noted that financial autonomy for local governments has failed to deliver effective governance or true independence because of corruption.

    Rafsanjani, who doubles as head of Transparency International, Nigeria Chapter, described the root issues as systemic, driven by political interference, weak institutions, poor accountability, and rampant corruption.

    He said this at a one-day dialogue on local government autonomy in Abuja, organised by CISLAC in collaboration with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS).

    He noted that in many states, local governments have become extensions of state executive power, with local officials often answering to governors rather than their constituents.

    The CISLAC boss stated: “Appointments, elections, budgetary allocations, and contract awards are frequently dictated by state actors.

    “The practice of replacing elected local councils with unelected caretaker committees, often for extended periods, violates Nigeria’s Constitution.

    “These practices undermine democracy and federalism, sabotaging development at the grassroots level where governance should be most impactful.”

    Rafsanjani also condemned moves by some governors to challenge the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and ICPC in court in an attempt to weaken the two commissions.

    “If you remove the EFCC and ICPC, the country will be in trouble,” he warned, praising the Supreme Court for rejecting such efforts.

    He also called for scrutiny of joint state-local government accounts, which he described as conduits for siphoning public funds.

    “Without transparency, autonomy remains merely symbolic,” Rafsanjani stressed, urging reforms to ensure accountability and development.

    In his remarks, ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, raised concerns over the appointment of incompetent individuals into local government leadership, blaming it for the growing cases of corruption and inefficiency at the grassroots level.

    Aliyu said the failure to ensure capable leadership has continued to undermine development in local areas.

    He noted that Section 7 of Nigeria’s Constitution establishes local governments as a democratic tier, yet they face significant challenges.

    He also blamed flawed electoral processes for the rot in the system.

    “Often, electoral processes are inadequately prepared to deliver free, fair and credible elections. These challenges have significantly undermined efficiency and created opportunities for corrupt practices to flourish in local administration,” he said.

    Read Also: TIN, CISLAC back NNPCL probe, demand comprehensive oil sector audit

    He added, “From the perspective of the ICPC, we have observed instances where funds have been misused under the guise of preparing for local government elections. In one such case, substantial sums were illicitly moved, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability.

    “On our part, the ICPC, in partnership with the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity, has introduced the Accountability and Corruption Prevention Programme for Local Governments (ACCP-LG). This programme focuses on tackling corruption at the local government level through initiatives aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in five thematic areas: fiscal transparency, human resources, open procurement, citizens’ engagement, and control of corruption.

    “The recent Supreme Court decision regarding local government autonomy represents a significant step towards achieving good governance within local government councils. However, the situation requires a deliberate effort from all critical stakeholders to ensure that the apex court’s decision is strictly respected.

    In his remarks, a lecturer from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Professor Adetunji Ogunyemi, stated that the Supreme Court’s 2024 decision had altered the trajectory of local governance in Nigeria.

    He called on Nigerians to activate the office of the citizen by holding elected local officials accountable and demanding value for money at the grassroots.

    He said, “The time has come for all Nigerians to actively engage the office of the citizen, to ensure that local authorities are held accountable, closely monitored, and effectively overseen to guarantee value for public resources at the grassroots level.”

  • TIN, CISLAC back NNPCL probe, demand comprehensive oil sector audit

    TIN, CISLAC back NNPCL probe, demand comprehensive oil sector audit

    Transparency International in Nigeria (TIN) and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) have supported the calls for a full-scale investigation into the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

    Head, TIN and Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, threw his weight behind the probe in an interview with Channels Television on the sidelines of the Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group (WBG) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington, D.C., United States.

    According to Rafsanjani, a thorough probe of the NNPCL’s operations was critical to promoting transparency, enhancing accountability, and ensuring that revenues from the oil sector were properly managed for the benefit of Nigerians.

    He said TIN and CISLAC were advocating physical and process audits in addition to a financial audit.

    “It is a welcome development to have an audit of NNPCL. However, we are advocating not just for a financial audit, but also for physical and process audits.

    “Only a comprehensive, multi-layered review can uncover systemic weaknesses and chart a course for genuine reform and revitalisation of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector,” he said.

    Rafsanjani explained that while financial audits assess records and transactions to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and verify the accuracy of reports submitted to bodies like the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), physical audits verify the existence and state of assets such as pipelines and oil wells. Process audits, on the other hand, examine internal controls and operational procedures to ensure efficiency, transparency, and adherence to global standards.

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    Despite the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act and Nigeria’s ongoing membership in the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), Rafsanjani warned that the oil and gas sector continues to be plagued by inefficiency, mismanagement, and a lack of professionalism.

    “There is no way we can continue like this. If we are serious about liberating the Nigerian economy, the oil and gas sector must be reformed and made truly productive for the people,” he added.

    He recommended that the President should no longer double as Minister of Petroleum Resources to ensure independence and effective oversight of the NNPCL.

    Rafsanjani expressed hope that the current push for a comprehensive audit of NNPCL would not be similarly ignored.