By Bilesanmi Abayomi
A storm of controversy is brewing in Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State as allegations of large-scale financial mismanagement have emerged against the Executive Chairman, Hon. Moyosore Ogunlewe.
The scandal took a dramatic turn after a cabinet member, Hon. Ganiu Oyebanjo, who petitioned the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) with evidence of alleged corruption, was arrested and charged with stealing classified documents. His arrest has sparked widespread outrage, with many accusing Ogunlewe of using state power to silence a whistleblower.
Residents Demand Transparency
Leading the call for accountability is Hon. Okufuwa Samad Oluwatoyin, who described the situation as a “clear case of impunity and abuse of power.” Samad insisted on a full audit of the council’s finances, stating:
“We, the residents of Kosofe, deserve to know how our collective resources are being managed. It is evident that funds meant for public welfare are being diverted into private pockets.”
Similarly, Comrade Amos S.O condemned Oyebanjo’s arrest, emphasizing that a whistleblower should be protected, not prosecuted. He raised critical questions:
- What steps has the council taken to address the alleged fraud?
- Why was the whistleblower arrested instead of being protected?
- What is the council’s policy on transparency and accountability?
“Instead of addressing the allegations, the council chairman is using the police to suppress dissent. This raises serious concerns about governance in Kosofe,” Amos added.
Lagos Assembly Silent on Investigation Findings
While multiple committees of the Lagos State House of Assembly, including the Public Accounts (Local) Committee and the Local Government Administration and Community Affairs Committee, have reportedly investigated the council, their findings remain undisclosed. This lack of transparency has further fueled suspicion among residents and activists.
Growing Pressure on Ogunlewe
The demands from the community are clear:
An independent forensic audit of Kosofe Local Government’s finances.
Immediate release and protection of whistleblower Hon. Ganiu Oyebanjo.
Public disclosure of the Lagos Assembly’s investigation report.
With growing public pressure, all eyes are now on Hon. Ogunlewe and the Lagos State Government. Will the chairman respond to the allegations, or will the calls for accountability force higher authorities to step in?