The Lagos State House of Assembly has strongly rejected allegations that it awarded a N17 billion contract for the construction of a new gate, calling the claims “unfounded” and “frivolous.”
The accusation, made by the Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition, had raised alarm about what they described as an extravagant contract. The group also petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), calling for an investigation into the alleged misappropriation of public funds.
But the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Security, and Strategy, Stephen Ogundipe, was quick to refute the claims in a statement released on Thursday.
Ogundipe described the petition as part of a political agenda aimed at discrediting the Lagos State House of Assembly. He firmly rejected the allegation, stating that the gate project had been completed over three years ago, and that there was no ongoing construction of any gate at the Assembly.
“The idea that the Assembly would award such a colossal sum for a gate is absolutely preposterous,” Ogundipe said. “It’s important to clarify that no such contract has been awarded.”
The Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition had claimed that the contract was part of a broader corruption scandal, asking the EFCC to investigate the Assembly leadership.
Ogundipe took offence at the group’s assertions, dismissing them as a “manufactured story” that lacked any factual basis. He stated that although the Assembly has its own procurement unit, all contracts go through the state government’s rigorous procurement process, ensuring transparency.
“For a few days now, there have been attempts to bring the Assembly into disrepute,” Ogundipe said. “These accusations are not based on facts, but rather a smear campaign designed for political gain.”
He also criticised the group’s hasty public claims, emphasizing that such a large sum—N17 billion—could not possibly be justified for the construction of a gate. Even in the most extravagant scenario, he said, the cost would be difficult to comprehend.
“Would the gate be made of gold?” he quipped. “It’s clear that no one with any sense would believe such an outlandish claim without questioning it.”
Ogundipe went on to highlight that the gate in question had been installed years ago, and no new construction project of such magnitude had taken place since. He questioned the integrity of the group behind the petition, accusing them of relying on rumors and “grapevine” information instead of verified facts.
“It’s laughable to suggest that a N17 billion project could be for a gate,” he said. “The Assembly’s leadership has been transparent in its dealings, and this petty attack does nothing but damage the credibility of those making the claims.”
He also pointed out that the accusations were based on old allegations, some of which had already been adjudicated in court. According to Ogundipe, the anti-corruption group was simply recycling past issues to stir up unnecessary controversy.
“The allegations they have raised were resolved long ago,” he said. “It’s disheartening that these same accusations are being used to undermine the hard work of this institution.”
Ogundipe reiterated that the House of Assembly had made significant strides in its governance and continued to focus on the progress of the state. He emphasized that the Assembly would not be distracted by the baseless claims of groups seeking to cause trouble.
“We have moved beyond the petty politics and negativity,” Ogundipe said. “Our focus remains on serving the people of Lagos and driving forward the state’s development.”