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Lagos State House Of Assembly Refuses To Transfer Budget To Ambode – Punch

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Sadly, about two weeks after the Lagos State House of Assembly passed the 2019 budget, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has yet to receive it, Saturday PUNCH has learnt.

Our correspondent gathered that the Assembly might be awaiting May 29 when the governor-elect, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, would be sworn into office.

A source told our correspondent that government projects had been stalled due to the impasse.

He accused the lawmakers of playing politics with the development of the state.

He said, “They just refused to pass it to the governor because they want to play politics with the budget. Most of the people in the Assembly are loyal to one man and he appears to be dictating to them.

“But what more do they want to do to Ambode? They have humiliated him, denied him his return ticket, and even threatened to impeach him. What has he done to deserve all that?

“What they failed to realise is that this is beyond Ambode. It is about Lagos State. It is about governance. Since they took this decision not to pass the budget to him, things have been at a standstill. No development; nothing. This is wrong at all levels because people’s lives are being held.”

However, another government source said while the Assembly might have certain reasons for not passing the bill to the governor, the law permits Ambode to spend a certain percentage of the previous year budget.

She said, “It is true that the budget has not been transmitted to the governor. But their reason is immaterial. Whatever they like they can do. The law allows the governor to spend a certain amount of last year’s budget pending the time the new budget would be ready. The governor will do his best within the time available.”

Controversies have trailed the budget since 2018 when the governor was accused of breaking the tradition of sending the budget to the Assembly before the fiscal year.

The Ambode administration had said it sent the budget to the Assembly early, but the lawmakers went on a break and could not sit over it in December 2018.

Early 2019, the Assembly had issued an impeachment threat to the governor for allegedly spending from the budget when it had not been passed.

After protests and public demonstrations, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, and some party stalwarts called the lawmakers and the governor into a meeting, where the matter was reportedly resolved.

On April 29, the Assembly passed the N873.532bn budget, more than 80 days after the governor eventually presented it.

Despite the widely-publicised reconciliation, the relationship of the governor with the Assembly members has not been cordial, according to reports.

The state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kehinde Bamigbetan, said he could not tell if the budget had been passed to the governor or not. 
He promised to call back after making enquiries.

Bamigbetan had yet to get back to our correspondent as of the time of filing this report.

The four telephone numbers on the official website of the Assembly either indicated switched off or not reachable when our correspondent called them.

The Deputy Speaker, Wasiu Sanni, and member, Adebayo Famakinwa, did not take their calls or respond to text messages from our correspondent as of press time.

Politics

Akande-Sadipe Emerges APC Candidate for Oluyole Federal Constituency Amid Failed Disruption Attempts*

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*Akande-Sadipe Emerges APC Candidate for Oluyole Federal Constituency Amid Failed Disruption Attempts*

 

The Member representing Oluyole Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, has emerged victorious in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Oluyole Federal Constituency.

 

The keenly contested primary, held under strict monitoring and in line with the party’s guidelines, witnessed a massive turnout of delegates and party faithful who reaffirmed their confidence in the leadership and representation of Akande-Sadipe.

 

Despite alleged attempts by opposition elements to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the exercise through acts capable of causing violence and tension, party members remained resolute and committed to democracy.

 

Security agencies and party officials acted swiftly to ensure orderliness, allowing the process to continue without intimidation.

 

Speaking after the declaration of results, Akande-Sadipe expressed gratitude to delegates, party leaders, and supporters across the constituency for their unwavering support and trust in her leadership.

 

She described the victory as a collective triumph for loyal party members and the people of Oluyole Federal Constituency.

 

“This victory belongs to the people of Oluyole who have continued to stand firmly for progress, continuity, and quality representation. I deeply appreciate the confidence reposed in me and assure our people that I will continue to work tirelessly for their welfare and development,” she said.

 

She also commended the leadership of the APC for ensuring a transparent and credible process while urging party members to remain united ahead of the general elections.

 

Akande-Sadipe reaffirmed her commitment to delivering impactful representation, empowerment programmes, infrastructural development, and people-oriented initiatives across Oluyole Federal Constituency.

 

E-signed:

 

Media Team

Office of Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe.

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Politics

Celebrating Toks Wahab … Omoluabi Eko at 54

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Celebrating Toks Wahab … Omoluabi Eko at 54

 

 

As Tokunbo Wahab turns 54, it is only fitting to celebrate not just the years, but the man he has consistently shown himself to be—one defined by kindness, humility, and a genuine love for people.

 

Yes, he is the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, and by every standard, he has done extremely well. His work, impact, and dedication in that office are evident for all to see. But that is not even the thrust of this write-up.

 

This is about the person.

 

A proud son of Epe in Lagos, he carries his roots with dignity and grace, reflecting the values of his heritage in the way he lives and relates with people. TKW… Omoluabi Eko—a true embodiment of character, respect, and integrity.

 

He is a man who shows up. Always willing to assist, to help, to give—without hesitation and without noise. His generosity is quiet, yet deeply impactful. His kindness is not occasional; it is who he is.

 

Those who know him closely will tell you he is incredibly accommodating. Easy to approach, easy to speak with, and always ready to make others feel comfortable, heard, and valued. There is a simplicity about him that is rare—no airs, no distance—just a calm, grounded presence.

 

He gives without announcing it. He supports without seeking recognition. He blesses lives in ways that may never be seen publicly, yet remain unforgettable to those who experience his goodwill.

 

In a world where many complicate things, he remains refreshingly simple. In a space where recognition is often chased, he chooses quiet impact. And when others might turn away, he steps forward.

 

As he marks this new chapter, we celebrate not just his life, but we also pray that God grants him many more meaningful years—years of continued service, impact, and grace to keep uplifting his people.

 

Happy 54th Birthday.

 

— Gbenga Adeyinka 1st

GCON

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Politics

Bola Fisayo Emerged as APC flagbearer for Ondo EAST-WEST Federal Constituency.

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  Bola Fisayo Emerged as APC flagbearer for Ondo EAST-WEST Federal Constituency.

 

Otunba Bola Fisayo has been declared winner of APC primary election held across the 22 wards of the Federal Constituency.

Announcing the results, the returning office Dr. André Akuche declared Otunba Bola Fisayo the winner having scored a total vote of 12,783 votes, Otunba Ade Adeniyi scored a total vote of 3,128 coming second while Hon. Abiola Makinde scored a total vote of 1,052 and Dr. Michael Akintomide Ajilo scored a total vote of 1011.

The total valid vote cast was 17974

Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye one of the Aspirants had earlier withdrawn from the race.

Otunba Bola Fisayo appreciated the party members for the mandate given to him and assured the party that unprecedented and adequate representation will be guaranteed in the federal constituency.

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