“Socio-Economic Rights Group Calls on President Tinubu to Halt Former Governors’ Dual Benefits as Ministers” The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to publicly instruct the former governors who are now serving as ministers in his administration to stop collecting life pensions, exotic cars, and other allowances from their states while they serve as ministers.

SERAP has requested that Tinubu direct these former governors to promptly return any pension and allowances they may have received since leaving office to the public treasury.

The former governors currently in ministerial roles within the Tinubu administration include Badaru Abubakar, Nyesom Wike, Bello Matawalle, Adegboyega Oyetola, and David Umahi. Others are Simon Lalong, Atiku Bagudu, and Ibrahim Geidam.

In a letter dated 19 August 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization noted that this practice is inconsistent with the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the nation’s international legal obligations.

SERAP emphasized that discontinuing the collection of life pensions by these former governors, who are now ministers, would align with the principles of integrity and ethical governance, particularly considering the current economic challenges in the country.

The letter further highlighted that the success of President Tinubu’s government would be greatly influenced by the behavior and integrity of the ministers he appoints. SERAP emphasized the importance of reflecting ethical and constitutional standards in appointments to government roles.

The organization stressed that the discontinuation of double emoluments for these former governors would promote the proper use of the country’s resources for the greater benefit of the public and vulnerable citizens, instead of benefiting a select few politicians.

SERAP conveyed its hope that President Tinubu would take the recommended actions within seven days of receiving or publishing the letter. The organization indicated its intention to pursue legal actions if the requested measures are not addressed, as part of its commitment to upholding the public interest.

The letter concluded by underlining the necessity of adhering to the constitutional oath of office, which requires public officials to refrain from acts that contradict the public trust and the overarching goals of the Constitution. The organization also referenced a previous court judgment that deemed double emoluments for former governors as unconstitutional and unacceptable.

SERAP’s communication cited President Tinubu’s inaugural promise to uphold the rule of law and fairness, asserting that these commitments align with his duty to ensure that ministerial appointments comply with constitutional and international legal standards. The organization emphasized the need for integrity, honesty, and responsible resource management in public service, as mandated by the UN Convention against Corruption.

In essence, SERAP’s letter urges President Tinubu to halt the practice of former governors receiving life pensions while serving as ministers, on the grounds that it is incompatible with legal and ethical standards of governance.