Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has empowered about 5,000 residents of Lagos with cash, vehicles, and other items under his Mega Empowerment Programme. The programme included N1.15 billion in cash support, 279 vehicles, mini-buses, electric cars, electric bicycles, laptops, and other items. Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, stated that 3,905 beneficiaries would receive N250,000 each, while 348 others would receive N500,000 each.
The empowerment programme also included 61 beneficiaries of electric vehicles, 600 beneficiaries of mini-buses, and 100 beneficiaries of laptops. Additionally, four Toyota Hiace 18-seater buses, two security patrol vehicles, a medical ambulance, and a special T2 jeep were part of the empowerment package. Gbajabiamila expressed gratitude to the people of Lagos for their support throughout his political career, including during difficult periods.
Gbajabiamila addressed recent allegations against him, stating that investigations by the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) had cleared him of any wrongdoing. He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for insisting on due process and refusing to rush to judgment.
The allegations against Gbajabiamila were made by the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee investigating the purported Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC). However, the committee found no evidence that Gbajabiamila authorised, approved, established, or participated in the activities of the organisation. Gbajabiamila warned those allegedly using his name to defraud members of the public, stating that the law would catch up with them.
Gbajabiamila reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu, stating that his commitment to the President's Renewed Hope Agenda remained unwavering. He also highlighted his loyalty to the President despite occasions when the President's political decisions did not align with his personal wishes. Gbajabiamila stated that he had been with President Tinubu for many years and had never betrayed the trust he placed in him.
The empowerment programme was earlier shifted to allow proper verification of beneficiaries nominated through community development associations and trade associations. Gbajabiamila stated that the event was not a token gesture, but one of the largest single empowerment programmes the community had ever witnessed. He also mentioned that the Bajaj transportation service was still operational, moving students within Surulere at no cost and offering discounted rates for the elderly.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, commended Gbajabiamila on the empowerment programme, stating that the APC had demonstrated its commitment to the people through various empowerment programmes and interventions across Lagos State. Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation to those supporting the empowerment initiative, saying the administration was proud of its achievements and remained committed to doing more for the people of Lagos.
Key points
- Gbajabiamila empowers 5,000 Lagos residents with N1.15 billion in cash support and 279 vehicles.
- Investigations clear Gbajabiamila of allegations made by the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee.
- Gbajabiamila reaffirms loyalty to President Tinubu and commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda.
