4th April, 2024
By Adekunle Williams
A group of protesters stormed Lagos House of Assembly with placards seeking the suspension of Mr John Ogundare, the chairman of Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) over alleged misappropriation of N1.9billion.
The leader of the protesters, identified as Mr Segun Williams said Ogundare was indicted by an investigative report of the local government’s Legislative Council dated Dec. 19, 2023 over diversion of funds earmarked for projects and other critical interventions.
He added that with the report, Ogundare should not remain in office, hence, the demand of the protesters for his suspension pending the conclusion of the investigation by the House of Assembly.
Williams claimed Ogundare ignored the invitation of the State Assembly on March 25 and April 3 to defend himself over the allegations.
He added that the Eti-Osa LCDA Chairman has been bragging that he had enough funds to influence the Lagos Assembly lawmakers.
Williams therefore said the lawmakers must act and “clear themselves from this mess.”
“In the report, signed by the Leader and Majority Leader of Eti-Osa East LCDA, the chairman was indicted for diverting funds earmarked for critical sectors, including health and education.
“Among the allegations are failure to pay running costs to various departments of the council based on the 2023 budget; neglecting balance payments to past political office holders against governmental advice;
“He was also indicted for unauthorised project execution and contract awards without legislative approval, non-adherence to the 2023 budget for schools and Primary Health Centres’ construction/renovation.
“Also failure to comply with legislative requests for income and expenditure records. He has perpetually approved contracts above his limit of N35 million,” he said.
While addressing the protesters, Mr Adebola Sabi, representing Lagos Mainland II, promised that the House of Assembly under the leadership of Mudashiru Obasa, would see to the matter.
Sabi said thanked the residents for their peaceful demonstration.
“I am saying it categorically that on behalf of the Speaker , you will get justice.
“We are here for the people of Lagos State and we will give you justice. We will deliver your message to the Speaker and I am aware that the chairman was invited because I was part of the ad hoc committee that was to investigate him.
“You voted us to come here to serve you and we are going to serve you well. So, please go back home peacefully and don’t allow anybody to torment you,” he said.
Other lawmakers that received the protesters were Abiodun Orekoya( Shomolu I), and Mr Bonu Solomon (Lagos Mainland I.)
(NAN)