In the face of an ongoing economic crisis, the Lagos State government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has been under scrutiny for approving significant sums for various projects, raising concerns about financial priorities.
A document from the state’s Public Procurement Agency (PPA) reveals some questionable spending decisions, including the approval of N73.1 million for the production of official portraits for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu. The project, executed by the office of the Chief of Staff, was awarded to Flolizvi Connect.
President Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State, was sworn in on May 29 after winning the presidential election. Governor Sanwo-Olu also began his second term on the same date.
Additionally, the office of the Chief of Staff obtained approval of N80.8 million on June 19 for the procurement of ten units of foreign-used vehicles. This comes after a previous approval of N440.75 million for a brand new Lexus LX 600 Bulletproof Sport Utility Vehicle. The same office allocated N18.5 million for the supply and distribution of 2,000 Noiler chickens across local government areas and wards in the state. Furthermore, N400 million was approved for flying hour expenses on an ad-hoc charter plane
Other notable expenditures include N152 million for the restoration of water supply at Iduganran Palace, the official residence of the Oba of Lagos. The government also approved N581 million for the renovation of Saint Andrews Anglican Church in the Oke-Popo area of the state.
These spending decisions have drawn criticism, especially given the economic challenges faced by citizens. Critics argue that such allocations, including the considerable amount for portraits, reflect insensitivity to the economic hardship experienced by the people.
As public discourse intensifies, questions about financial priorities and responsible spending are likely to persist.
