A lawsuit has been filed against Akpabio for neglecting to recall Senator Ningi and for involvement in budget padding.

SERAP has taken legal action against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging his failure to refer a N3.7 trillion budget padding case to appropriate anti-corruption agencies for investigation and prosecution. They also accuse him of neglecting to reinstate Senator Abdul Ningi, who exposed the budget padding.

In the lawsuit filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja, SERAP seeks an order to compel Akpabio to refer the alleged budget padding for investigation and prosecution. They also demand Ningi’s immediate reinstatement and the implementation of transparency measures for constituency project funds.

SERAP argues that granting their application would serve the public interest, encourage whistleblowers, and enhance transparency and accountability. They assert that Akpabio’s actions contravene the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s international obligations.

The lawsuit highlights flaws in Ningi’s suspension process and asserts his status as a whistleblower. It stresses the importance of investigating budget padding allegations to combat corruption and improve public service delivery.

SERAP points out legal obligations under the UN Convention against Corruption, emphasizing the protection of whistleblowers like Ningi. They cite BudgIT’s findings of indiscriminate project insertions in the 2024 budget as evidence of budget irregularities.

No hearing date has been set for the suit yet.