A wave of outrage hit the Lagos State House of Assembly as a group of aggrieved protesters stormed the premises, demanding the immediate suspension of Hon. John Ogundare, Chairman of Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area (LCDA), over allegations of misappropriating a staggering N1.9 billion in public funds.
Carrying bold placards and chanting slogans, the protesters, led by Comrade Segun Williams, accused Ogundare of diverting funds earmarked for key developmental projects in health, education, and infrastructure.
According to Williams, a damning investigative report by the Legislative Council of Eti-Osa East LCDA, dated December 19, 2023, had already indicted the embattled chairman for financial misconduct.
“He has no business remaining in office,” Williams declared. “He ignored summons from the House on March 25 and April 3. Instead, he boasts about using his wealth to influence lawmakers.”
The report, signed by both the Leader and Majority Leader of the LCDA legislature, outlined a series of grave infractions by Ogundare, including unauthorized project executions, contract awards without legislative backing, failure to follow the 2023 budgetary provisions, and the persistent refusal to present income and expenditure reports.
He was also accused of exceeding his spending limit by approving contracts above N35 million.
In response, Engr. Rasheed Adebola Shabi, who represents Lagos Mainland II, addressed the protesters, assuring them that the House—under the leadership of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa—would not sweep the matter under the carpet.
“We hear you loud and clear. I was on the ad hoc committee investigating the chairman. On behalf of the Speaker, I promise you—justice will be served,” Shabi assured.
Shabi urged the crowd to remain peaceful, pledging that their concerns would be communicated directly to Speaker Obasa.
Hon. Abiodun Orekoya representing Shomolu I and Hon. Bonu Solomon representing Badagry also stood in solidarity with the demonstrators during the heated protest.
