The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to mark his first year in office by publicly disclosing his asset declaration form. SERAP also calls for Vice-President Kashim Shettima, ministers, and state governors to follow suit, promoting transparency and accountability in government.
In an open letter dated May 25, 2024, signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization encouraged President Tinubu to propose a constitutional amendment to create an asset declaration database. This database would publish the asset declarations of government officials before, during, and after their terms in office.
“Publishing your asset declaration form and encouraging others to do so would serve legitimate public interests and promote public trust,” the letter stated. “It would establish a system of transparency, accountability, and public participation.”
SERAP highlighted the importance of openness in asset declarations to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and ensure accountability at all government levels. They reminded President Tinubu of his inaugural promise on May 29, 2023, to discourage corruption and ensure impartial governance according to the constitution and the rule of law.
“Transparency in asset declarations would enable Nigerians to scrutinize these forms, verify the financial situations of public officials, and identify potential conflicts of interest and corruption,” SERAP noted. Making such information publicly accessible would combat corruption and bolster public confidence in the integrity of government.
SERAP emphasized that asset declarations are public documents and that there is significant public interest in disclosing information on the assets of public officers, who are trustees of Nigeria’s wealth and resources. The organization pointed out that the Nigerian Constitution and international anti-corruption treaties mandate public officials to declare their assets.
“The Nigerian Constitution and anti-corruption treaties highlight the crucial role of asset declaration in promoting transparency, accountability, and combating corruption in the public service,” the letter concluded. SERAP expressed hope that President Tinubu would take concrete steps to publish his asset declaration and encourage other high-ranking officials to do the same, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance and public accountability.
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