Participate actively in governance, monitor government activities and projects, SERAP urges Nigerians
By Jude-Ken Ojinnaka
An internationally recognised Lagos-based human rights and advocacy organisation the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) on Wednesday urged Nigerians to ensure active participation in governance by monitoring government activities and projects meant for the citizens.
The need for Nigerians to be actively involved in governance was stressed by SERAP during the workshop it held in Lagos to sensitize Nigerians on their constitutional rights and roles to play.
The workshop which was organized by SERAP with the support from the MacArthur Foundation, brought together community networks and associations, civil society organizations, women groups, people with disability, community leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss strategic actions and approaches to promote transparency and accountability in the management of public resources in Nigeria.
The ultimate aim is to build the capacity of key stakeholders and come up with a plan of action for encouraging citizens’ involvement and participation in the fight against corruption and the efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in the management and use of public resources.
The workshop which focused on Promoting Citizens’ Action for Transparency and Accountability in the Management of Public Resources in Nigeria was declared open by a representative of the Executive Director of SERAP Mr Adetokunbo Mumuni.
The first topic of the workshop titled ‘Active Citizenship: The Roles of Duty Bearers In Holding Government to Account ‘ was discussed by the Program Officer of SERAP Folashade Arigbabu.
She said that there are different ways by which we can participate in governance and demand accountability from the government. She said that we can achieve our goals by first knowing our rights to monitor the activities of government.
We should put our eyes and watch on the projects meant for us.
If we are in doubt about the projects, we can apply for the Freedom of Information Act to find out from the agency or ministry what they have us.
Follow up a project as soon as the tender request is published by relevant ministry/ agency.
Folashade expressed that any decision made by those in positions of authority will definitely affect the citizens in every sphere of life.
Arigbabu said: “There is the need for Nigerians to hold to account those elected to represent them in various capacities, especially where they fail to make known to the citizenry what they are doing and that which they have in mind to do.
“Nigerians must ask questions concerning the status of projects being executed by those in government, and also monitor its implementation”.
Also delivering a lecture on ‘The Effective Use of the FoI Act in Promoting Citizen Action for Improved Governance’, a Legal Adviser with SERAP, Andrew Nwankwo revealed that the Freedom of Information Act can be used to demand explanations from those in leadership positions.
Earlier in his welcome address, a Senior Program Officer with the human rights organization, Temidayo Omoju said the workshop is a significant step towards fostering a culture of transparency and accountability in Nigeria and commended each participant for taking part in the endeavor.
In his words: “The management of public resources is a critical aspect of governance, and it directly impacts the lives of citizens. When public resources are managed effectively and transparently, it leads to the provision of essential services, infrastructure development, and overall socio-economic progress.
“Conversely, the mismanagement of public resources can have severe repercussions, hindering development, eroding public trust, and perpetuating corruption.
“This workshop serves as a platform to equip you with the necessary tools, skills, and knowledge to actively engage in promoting transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.
“Throughout this training, we will explore various strategies, best practices, and case studies that can empower citizens to play an active role in holding public officials accountable and ensuring the responsible use of public funds.
“We will delve into topics such as citizen participation in budget processes, monitoring, and evaluation of public projects, leveraging technology for transparency, engaging with public institutions, and advocating for policy reforms.
“The knowledge gained here will enable you to become advocates for change, driving the transformation of our society towards a more transparent and accountable governance system.
“I encourage all of you to actively participate, share your experiences, and engage in fruitful discussions throughout the workshop. Remember, your contributions are invaluable, and the collective effort we put forth here will have a profound impact on our nation”.
One of the highlights of the workshop was the inauguration of new SAC Executives from various tertiary institutions by Ruth Otori, a program Officer with SERAP.