The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education has expressed strong concern over the Federal Government’s decision to allocate N135.22 billion for anticipated election litigations ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that the move could undermine Nigeria’s democratic credibility.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, CHRICED described the provision as excessive, opaque, and indicative of misplaced priorities at a time of economic hardship.
CHRICED noted that the Federal Government has already proposed N873.78 billion for the 2027 general elections, alongside an additional N171 billion for the operations of the Independent National Electoral Commission in 2026.
It, however, faulted the inclusion of a separate N135.22 billion litigation fund, which accounts for 15.48 per cent of the total election budget.
According to CHRICED, the sudden introduction of the litigation budget line, reportedly absent in earlier drafts of the revised 2026 budget, raises serious concerns about transparency and intent.
It added that the lack of clarity surrounding the utilisation of the funds further weakens public trust in the electoral process.
CHRICED stressed that INEC already operates legal departments across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to handle electoral disputes, questioning the rationale behind such a large additional allocation for legal battles.
“It suggests an expectation of widespread electoral disputes rather than a commitment to preventing them,” the statement said.
CHRICED also raised critical questions about the implications of the development, including whether the government is preparing for credible elections or “budgeting for electoral chaos,” and whether the move signals an increasing reliance on the judiciary to determine electoral outcomes instead of voters.
CHRICED argued that the allocation is particularly troubling given Nigeria’s current economic challenges, including rising inflation, unemployment, and public debt.
It described the move as insensitive and reflective of a governance culture that plans for failure instead of reform.
“In any functional democracy, elections are decided at polling units, not in courtrooms. Budgeting heavily for litigation sends a dangerous signal that electoral irregularities are anticipated and tolerated,” CHRICED stated.
It warned that such a policy could further erode public confidence in democratic institutions, deepen voter apathy, and undermine the legitimacy of future elections.
It recommended that a significant portion of the funds be redirected towards preventive electoral reforms such as voter education, improved logistics, adoption of reliable technology, transparent result management, and enhanced training for electoral personnel.
CHRICED further noted that the amount could also be invested in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, security, and power, which have a direct impact on citizens’ welfare.
The group called on the Federal Government to provide full disclosure and justification for the litigation allocation, including clear oversight mechanisms.
CHRICED also urged authorities to prioritize reforms that promote transparency, strengthen INEC’s independence, and reduce reliance on post-election litigation.
“Nigeria must not institutionalize electoral dysfunction or normalize budgeting for its consequences.
“The integrity of elections must be safeguarded at the source,” the statement added.
