A wave of criticism has trailed the Federal Government’s decision to earmark ₦135.22 billion for post-election litigation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
ActionAid Nigeria described the allocation as excessive and concerning, warning that it signals weaknesses in electoral governance and misplaced national priorities.
In a statement, the organisation argued that such a provision suggests an anticipation of widespread electoral disputes rather than a commitment to conducting credible and transparent elections.
“This is not just a budgetary concern; it is a governance crisis,” the group said, noting that the scale of the allocation is unprecedented when compared to previous years.
Data from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) showed that litigation costs stood at about ₦2.1 billion in 2022 and ₦3.08 billion in 2023, making the proposed ₦135 billion a significant increase.
The Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, warned that the development points to a shift toward managing electoral crises rather than preventing them.
He highlighted persistent gaps in Nigeria’s electoral system, including uncertainties surrounding the electronic transmission of results, stressing that reforms in this area could reduce disputes and boost public confidence.
The organisation also criticised the allocation as poorly aligned with national priorities, especially at a time of economic hardship, insecurity, and underfunded public services.
It warned that such spending could overburden the judiciary, delay justice delivery, and raise the cost of political participation.
ActionAid Nigeria urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the budget and redirect resources toward strengthening the electoral system ahead of the polls.
“The real test of electoral integrity is not how many cases are won in court, but how few disputes arise,” the group stated.