By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated N135.22 billion in the 2026 budget to handle election-related court cases and disputes arising from the 2027 general elections, as presented in the Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly, in Abuja, to prepare for post-election legal challenges.
What the Allocation Covers
The provision is titled “Electoral Adjudication and Post-Election Provision.” It reflects a proactive move to manage disputes after the polls.
Notably, the government placed the fund under Service-Wide Votes. These funds cover obligations not assigned to specific ministries or agencies.
Service-Wide Votes typically handle:
- Emergency expenses
- Pending liabilities
- Cross-sector financial commitments
Therefore, this inclusion signals early planning for election-related legal battles.
Funding Structure and Budget Breakdown
The allocation falls under the Consolidated Revenue Fund charges, making it a direct national obligation.
Out of the total N3.70 trillion in this category, the election litigation fund takes a significant portion.
In addition, the government approved:
- N1.01 trillion statutory transfer to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
Statutory transfers go directly to institutions by law. They do not require executive approval for release.
Earlier, INEC disclosed it would need over N873 billion to conduct the 2027 elections. This figure exceeds the 2023 election cost.
Rising Cost of Democracy Raises Concerns
The growing election budget has triggered nationwide debate. Many stakeholders now question the rising cost of democracy in Nigeria.
Political Parties React
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed strong concerns.
Its spokesman, Ini Ememobong, argued that the allocation raises transparency issues.
He stated that:
- The provision suggests INEC expects disputes
- Transparent elections should reduce litigation
Similarly, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) reacted.
Its spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, acknowledged that legal disputes are normal.
However, he described the amount as excessive. He also called for strict accountability.
Experts Criticise the Allocation
Renowned economist, Pat Utomi, questioned the rationale behind the fund.
He argued that:
- Elections involve candidates, not the government
- Public funds should not cover legal battles
Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, also criticised the move.
He described the allocation as too high and unnecessary.
According to him:
- INEC already has internal legal teams
- External legal costs remain relatively low
- Election litigation may not exceed N20 billion
He added that legal reforms could further reduce election cases.
Civil Society Joins the Debate
Civil society organisations have also raised concerns. They questioned the intent behind such a large provision.
Many believe credible elections would reduce disputes and legal costs.
Conclusion
The government has approved the N135.22 billion allocation as part of the 2026 budget framework. However, debates continue over its necessity, size, and transparency.
