By Our Correspondent
Abia State has emerged as the lowest-performing state in Nigeria in audit transparency, recording a concerning score of just 9 percent in a recent assessment. The ranking has sparked widespread concern among civil society organisations and accountability advocates, who warn that such a low score reflects deep-rooted challenges in financial openness and governance within the state.
The report highlights several critical shortcomings, including the limited availability of audit reports to the public, weak financial disclosure systems, and inadequate institutional oversight. These deficiencies make it difficult for citizens, journalists, and watchdog groups to scrutinise government spending and ensure that public funds are managed responsibly.
In response to the findings, the Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has called for urgent and far-reaching reforms. The organisation described the situation as unacceptable and stressed that transparency and accountability are fundamental pillars of democratic governance. It urged the state government to prioritise the timely publication of audit reports and strengthen existing frameworks to promote openness.
FENRAD further emphasised that improving audit transparency is not only necessary for accountability but also critical for rebuilding public trust. According to the group, when citizens have access to clear and reliable financial information, it enhances confidence in government institutions and encourages greater civic participation.
The situation in Abia underscores wider concerns about transparency at the subnational level in Nigeria. Analysts note that without decisive action, persistent gaps in accountability could slow development, weaken institutions, and limit the effectiveness of public service delivery.
