Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, has stated that investigations into allegations surrounding his office have cleared him of any wrongdoing. He made this statement at the 2026 Gbaja mega empowerment event in Lagos, where he empowered residents of Surulere with e-hailing electric cars, minibuses, tricycles, and cash support for small businesses. Gbajabiamila reflected on the allegations against him and thanked those who stood by him during the period of scrutiny.
Gbajabiamila revealed that the allegations were eventually found to be without merit after investigations by relevant authorities, including the Nigerian Police, the DSS, and the ICPC. He noted that the experience had demonstrated the challenges that could accompany public service, particularly for people seeking high political office. Gbajabiamila encouraged young people not to be discouraged by such challenges, saying that they were a necessary part of seeking high office.
The Chief of Staff expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for allowing due process to take its course rather than acting on the allegations before investigations were concluded. He maintained that he remained committed to his responsibilities despite attempts to distract him. Gbajabiamila warned those using his name to defraud members of the public that the law would eventually catch up with them.
The empowerment programme, worth about ₦1.15 billion, provided support to approximately 5,000 beneficiaries in Gbajabiamila's Surulere constituency. The programme included cash grants, vehicles, equipment, and other forms of assistance aimed at helping beneficiaries grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods. Gbajabiamila explained that the empowerment event was postponed from June to allow organisers to properly verify submissions from wards, community-based associations, and trade groups.
The beneficiaries included 3,905 people receiving ₦250,000 each and another 348 beneficiaries receiving ₦500,000 each. The package also included 61 electric vehicles, 50 electric tricycles, 60 minibuses, and 100 laptops. Other items provided were four Toyota HiAce 18-seater buses, two security patrol vehicles, one medical ambulance, and two additional vehicles. Gbajabiamila highlighted the continued operation of the Gajarai transportation service, which provides free transportation for students and discounted services for elderly residents.
Gbajabiamila announced plans to install electric vehicle charging stations, saying the initiative would create additional opportunities for residents. He noted that the broader strategy was aimed at reducing transportation and operating costs while making electric vehicles more accessible. The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, who attended the event, said the All Progressives Congress (APC) has remained focused on connecting with citizens and addressing their needs at the grassroots.
Key points
- Femi Gbajabiamila was cleared of allegations by the Nigerian Police, DSS, and ICPC.
- Gbajabiamila empowered 5,000 residents of Surulere with ₦1.15 billion in cash support and vehicles.
- The empowerment programme aimed to provide direct support to residents and promote cleaner transportation.
