The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to launch an investigation into the alleged spending of N145 billion allocated to the Safe Schools initiative, citing persistent attacks and kidnappings targeting educational institutions across the country.
In a letter addressed to the President, SERAP expressed concern over the continued abduction of students and school personnel despite substantial funds reportedly earmarked to improve security in schools. The organisation argued that growing insecurity around educational facilities has raised questions about how the funds were utilised and whether the programme achieved its intended objectives.
SERAP urged the federal government to direct relevant anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies to examine the management of the funds, identify any instances of misappropriation or irregularities, and ensure accountability where necessary. The group maintained that transparency in the use of public resources is essential to restoring public confidence and strengthening school safety measures.
According to SERAP, recurring kidnappings and attacks on schools suggest that the objectives of the Safe Schools programme have not been fully realised. The organisation stressed that investigating the expenditure would help determine whether resources allocated to protecting students and educational institutions were effectively deployed.
The advocacy group also called for the publication of details relating to the allocation and utilisation of the funds, arguing that Nigerians have a right to know how public money designated for critical security interventions was spent.
The appeal comes amid renewed concern over school-related abductions in several parts of Nigeria, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted students and staff, disrupting education and heightening fears among parents and communities.
SERAP said ensuring accountability for the Safe Schools funds would not only address concerns about public spending but could also contribute to strengthening measures aimed at safeguarding schools nationwide.
The federal government has yet to issue an official response to the organisation’s request. However, the call adds to ongoing demands for greater oversight of security-related expenditures and improved protection for schools across Nigeria.
