In a significant legal development, a Federal High Court in Lagos has compelled former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disasters Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, to provide a detailed account of how 729 billion naira was disbursed to 24.3 million poor Nigerians over a period of six months. This directive follows a Freedom of Information suit filed by Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).
Hon. Justice Deinde Isaac Dipeolu delivered the judgement, ordering the former minister to disclose the list and details of beneficiaries, the number of states covered, and the specific payments made per state. The court upheld SERAP’s argument, dismissing objections raised by Farouq’s counsel and emphasizing compliance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act.
Justice Dipeolu’s ruling highlighted the minister’s obligation to provide transparency in public spending, particularly concerning the substantial funds allocated to alleviate poverty. This decision underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in governance, urging prompt compliance with court orders to uphold public trust and ensure proper management of public funds.