Tracka has raised concerns over the disbursement of N129.5 billion for Nigeria’s suspended 2023 National Population Census, citing the absence of published enumeration results and a lack of public accountability.

In a statement, the civic organisation noted that nearly two decades after Nigeria’s last credible census in 2006, the country continued to operate without reliable population data—an issue it said undermined effective governance, national planning, and equitable distribution of resources across critical sectors. According to Tracka, an analysis of public expenditure records indicates that substantial funds were allocated to census-related activities.

These include N118.38 billion spent on Personal Digital Assistants and accessories, N2.47 billion on Hilux vehicles, alongside other expenditures on supporting infrastructure. Despite the significant financial outlay, the group observed that the census exercise was only partially mobilised before being suspended, with no official results released.

It described the development as raising serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and value for money in the management of public funds. To seek clarity, Tracka said it had formally written to the National Population Commission under the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, requesting a detailed breakdown of the funds disbursed, corresponding deliverables, and the current status of the census project.

However, the organisation disclosed that more than three weeks after the request was acknowledged, the Commission had yet to respond, a situation it said contravenes the provisions of the FOI Act. Tracka called for immediate disclosure from the Commission, stressing the need to restore public trust and ensure accountability in the handling of funds earmarked for the census exercise.