BREAKING NEWS: ICPC arrests Lagos Island East LCDA Chairman, Muibi Alade Folawiyo over corruption

BREAKING NEWS: ICPC arrests Lagos Island East LCDA Chairman, Muibi Alade Folawiyo over corruption

By Fashina Shakiru

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arrested the Chairman, Lagos Island East LCDA, Mr Muibi Alade Folawiyo for alleged gross corruption on Tuesday.

According to the spokesperson for the Commission, Dr Demola Bakare, said Folawiyo was allegedly involved in massive stealing, diversion of public funds for personal benefits, non adherence to due process among other reasons

The tenure of Muibi Alade Folawiyo as the Chairman of the Lagos Island East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has been marred by a series of controversies, inefficiencies, and a blatant disregard for accountability, transparency, and inclusivity, Fly Cable News reports.

His leadership style, characterized by rowdiness by his supporters, a power-drunk attitude, and a lack of commitment to the developmental projects that will benefit the masses, has left the LCDA in a state of stagnation and disarray. Below is a detailed analysis of why his administration failed to merit a second term.

Fly Cable News authoritative gathered that, the chairman misappropriation of funds meant for community project development like Sandgrouse Market Redevelopment, Unaccounted LCDA Homes in Sura and Phase IV instead of utilizing these funds for the benefit of the public and the market traders, the project was handed over to private individuals for redevelopment.

This move not only sidelines the original purpose of the project but also raises questions about the transparency of the process. Who are these private individuals, and what connections do they have to the administration? The people of Lagos Island East deserve answers. And above all, why are all the original owners despite presenting copies of their original documents as demanded by the committee headed by Hon. Bayo Sanwo-olu denied the benefits of owning a shop after it was rebuilt?

These are the projects ostensibly to provide affordable housing for residents. However, none of these homes have been accounted for, as they have allegedly been sold to cronies without an open public auction. This blatant act of favoritism and lack of transparency deprives the community of much-needed housing and raises serious questions about the administration’s commitment to equitable development.

The administration of Muibi Alade Folawiyo also involved significant funds for the redevelopment of Zapass buildings, a project that holds no tangible economic value for the people. This is particularly concerning given that existing buildings, such as those at Marina (where the council secretariat is located) and Foresythe, are underutilized or left to waste away. The prioritization of such projects over more pressing community needs suggests a lack of strategic planning and a possible diversion of funds for personal gain.

An inside report revealed that Despite the existence of the Monthly Joint Allocation Committee (JAC), there is no visible reflection or utilization of the revenue accrued to the LCDA. The funds generated from various sources, including taxes and levies, seem to disappear into a black hole, with little to no impact on the development of the area. This lack of accountability is a clear indication of maladministration and a failure to prioritize the welfare of the people.

Source revealed that, the chairman involved misused council funds for personal enrichment the reports noted that Mayor Muibi Alade Folawiyo has been using the monthly JAC allocations to purchase choice properties within and outside the LCDA on a quarterly basis. This blatant misuse of public funds for personal enrichment not only slows down the development of the LCDA but also demonstrates a complete disregard for the principles of good governance.

The current administration of the Lagos Island East LCDA under Mayor Muibi Alade Folawiyo has become synonymous with corruption, maladministration, and graft. The misappropriation of funds, lack of transparency, and prioritization of personal gain over public welfare have left the community in a state of stagnation. It is imperative that these issues are addressed urgently through a thorough investigation and the implementation of stringent measures to ensure accountability. The people of Lagos Island East deserve better, and it is high time that their voices are heard.

He was arrested at the Council Secretariat on 42 Broad street, Lagos after failing to honour repeated invitations sent and acknowledged by him.

The commission expected the chairman to report today as the investigation continues.