Lagos Govt debunks ₦4.2bn office furniture, microphones budget claims

2026-02-27 - 21:08

By Olasunkanmi Akoni The Lagos State Government has debunked reports alleging that ₦4.2 billion was proposed in the 2026 budget for the purchase of office furniture and microphones for the Office of the Deputy Governor. The clarification follows reports by an online medium claiming that the deputy governor’s office earmarked ₦4.2 billion for the items. In a statement released Friday evening by the Lagos State Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget and made available to the media, the government described the reports as a “misrepresentation.” “The attention of the Lagos State Government has been drawn to reports alleging that ₦4.2 billion was proposed in the 2026 budget for the purchase of office furniture and microphones for the Office of the Deputy Governor. “This claim is inaccurate and results from a clear misinterpretation of the approved capital provisions,” the statement said. According to the ministry, the total capital allocation for the Office of the Deputy Governor for the 2026 fiscal year is ₦4,247,816,006, a figure that was incorrectly presented as funding solely for office furniture and microphones. It explained that ₦4,077,816,006 of the allocation is earmarked for the reconstruction of the Round House complex—a six-storey facility housing over 50 offices—including structural upgrades, retrofitting works and the provision of alternative energy infrastructure. The balance of ₦170,000,000, the statement noted, covers the purchase of office equipment, office furniture and fittings, as well as other capital items. The government added that screenshots of the relevant budget master sheet were attached for transparency and public review. Reiterating its commitment to due process and fiscal discipline, the state government urged stakeholders and media organisations to seek clarification through appropriate channels to ensure accurate reporting. It also expressed regret over any misunderstanding arising from the classification, reaffirming its commitment to prudent management of public resources.