CSOs demand probe over alleged missing ₦26.9bn USPF funds, threaten protest
- 25 civil society groups demand investigation into ₦26.9 billion missing from Nigeria's Universal Service Provision Fund
- Coalition warns of mass protests if authorities fail to act on financial irregularities uncovered by Auditor-General
- Call for accountability includes prosecution of individuals responsible for missing funds and recovery into national treasury
A coalition of 25 civil society organisations has called for an immediate investigation into the alleged disappearance of ₦26.9 billion from the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), following claims contained in the latest report of the Auditor-General of the Federation.
The group made the demand in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, warning that it would embark on a mass protest if authorities fail to act.
Source: Twitter
The report, referenced by the coalition, is said to have raised concerns over unaccounted expenditures, irregular contract awards, and payments for services allegedly not rendered.
Allegations of financial irregularities and accountability gaps
According to the coalition, the Auditor-General’s findings point to serious breaches in the management of public funds meant to expand telecommunications access to underserved and rural communities across the country.
They warned that any diversion of the fund undermines its core mandate of bridging Nigeria’s digital divide and promoting inclusive connectivity.
“The report details unaccounted expenditures, failure to remit public funds, irregular contract awards, and payments for services not rendered, which point to serious breaches of public trust,” the communiqué stated.
The coalition further expressed concern that the allegations reflect systemic weaknesses in financial oversight within the USPF structure.
Protest planned over alleged missing funds
Arising from its meeting, the coalition announced plans to stage a nationwide protest on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, to demand accountability and urgent action over the matter.
It also called on the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, as well as the Secretary of the USPF, Yomi Arowosafe, to publicly account for the alleged missing funds.
“We call on the Minister… and the Secretary of the Universal Service Provision Fund to publicly account for and explain the whereabouts of the alleged N26.9 billion,” the group said.
Demand for probe, prosecution and recovery of funds
The coalition urged the authorities to institute an independent and transparent investigation into all flagged transactions, insisting that anyone found culpable should be prosecuted where evidence is established.
It also demanded full recovery of any missing or diverted funds into the national treasury, warning that failure to act would amount to condoning impunity.
“Any failure to address these allegations with urgency and transparency will amount to a tacit endorsement of impunity,” the group warned.
Reaffirming its position, the coalition said it remained committed to transparency and protection of public resources, stressing that it would continue its mobilisation until justice is achieved and the credibility of the USPF is restored.
Source: Legit.ng
