Residents of Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) on Thursday staged a protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly complex over John Ogundare, the council chairman’s alleged misappropriation of N1.9 billion. 

About 500 protesters carried placards with various inscriptions, calling for the suspension of the council chairman.

Speaking on behalf of protesters, Segun Williams urged State House of Assembly members to act urgently.

Mr Williams said an investigative report dated December 19, 2023, by the local government’s legislative council, had indicted Mr Ogundare and that he did not deserve to remain in office.

“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 and non-adherence to the 2023 budget for schools and Primary Health Centres’ construction/renovation.

“He has also failed to comply with legislative requests for income and expenditure records. He has perpetually approved contracts above his limit of N35 million,” Mr Williams said.

Mr Williams alleged that the chairman had ignored the state assembly’s invitation on March 25 and April 3 and had been bragging that he had enough funds to influence the state’s lawmakers.

He said the Assembly needed to act and “clear itself from this mess.”

Receiving the protesters, Adebola Sabi, representing Lagos Mainland II, said the assembly, under the leadership of Mudashiru Obasa, would see to the matter.

“We are here for the people of Lagos State, and we will give you justice. We will deliver your message to the speaker. I am aware that the chairman was invited because I was part of the ad hoc committee that was to investigate him,” said Mr Sabi.

(NAN)