SERAP Sues Tinubu Over Ex-Governor Ministers’ Dual Pay

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has initiated legal proceedings against President Bola Tinubu, challenging his administration’s alleged negligence in preventing former governors-turned-ministers from receiving both life pensions and ministerial salaries. 

Named in the litigation are ex-governors, including Badaru Abubakar, Nyesom Wike, Bello Matawalle, Adegboyega Oyetola, David Umahi, Simon Lalong, Atiku Bagudu, and Ibrahim Geidam. These individuals currently serve in President Tinubu’s cabinet, holding vital ministerial portfolios.

Filed in the Federal High Court in Lagos, SERAP’s lawsuit seeks a court order compelling President Tinubu to instruct these ex-governors to cease pension collection from their respective states. Additionally, the organization is urging for a mandate that requires these ministers to return any pensions and benefits acquired since their ministerial appointments. 

SERAP’s contention hinges on the argument that such dual compensations for these ex-governors violate the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s international commitments, particularly during economic strain. The organization has called out the apparent disparity between unpaid pensions for many retirees and the substantial severance benefits these political figures receive in addition to their current salaries.

The legal action highlights that while certain states provide generous retirement packages for their ex-governors—including luxury homes, vehicles, and personal staff—many of these states grapple with unpaid workers’ salaries and rank among the nation’s most economically challenged.

According to a report by Vanguard, SERAP has emphasized President Tinubu’s inaugural pledge to uphold the rule of law, fairness, and adherence to the constitution, citing these commitments in line with the president’s constitutional duties. The organization asserts that the dual compensations contravene both the Nigerian Constitution and the UN Convention against Corruption, which promotes the responsible management of public resources.

Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo, in a 2019 judgment, also underscored that such double emoluments for ex-governors are unconstitutional, labeling the practice as a potential exploitation of public positions.

While the court is yet to set a date for the hearing, the case has stirred public discourse, drawing attention to the ethics and legality of politicians receiving dual compensations in a nation grappling with economic challenges.