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Lagos Speaker Denies Spending Billions On Gate, Thanksgiving Event

Published

9 hours ago

Dec 19, 2024.

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has described allegations that the Assembly spent ₦17 billion on constructing a gate as baseless and laughable.

The claim, made by a self-proclaimed group called the Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition, also sought an investigation into the purported expenditure. Addressing the allegations during plenary, Obasa suggested the claims were politically motivated, arising from fears tied to the 2027 elections, which are still years away.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that a statement released on Thursday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Eromosele Ebhomele, further clarified Obasa’s position. The Speaker debunked not only the ₦17 billion gate allegation but also a separate claim that ₦200 million was spent on the Assembly’s recent 22nd thanksgiving service.

“It is so funny. How much is the Assembly’s yearly allocation that we would decide to spend ₦17 billion on a gate? They even claimed we expended ₦200 million on a thanksgiving service that didn’t happen,” Obasa stated.

“This House has not embarked on any such project. We are not reckless. Our thanksgiving was held last Friday and was attended by dignitaries from across the state.”

Responding to further allegations about his alleged involvement in the screening and confirmation of EFCC chairman Ola Olukoyede, Obasa categorically denied attending the National Assembly for the event. He called for verification through available CCTV footage and media reports.

“This is just to clear the air for the public. The group behind the allegations is not worth exchanging words with,” Obasa remarked.

In a prior response, the Assembly’s spokesperson, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, also refuted the allegations, emphasizing the House’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability.

“It is ludicrous to claim Speaker Obasa and Clerk Olalekan Onafeko mishandled constituency funds when the Lagos State House of Assembly does not even manage such funds. Constituency projects are solely the responsibility of the executive arm,” Ogundipe said.

Lagos Speaker Gate

Ogundipe further explained that the Assembly focuses on annual stakeholders’ meetings where constituents voice their expectations and requests. These inputs are then submitted to the executive for inclusion in the state budget.