Lagos Assembly Suspends Alimosho Council Chairman Over Procurement Violations, Alleged Citizen Death

Ikeja, Lagos State- The Lagos State House of Assembly has suspended Jelili Sulaimon, the chairman of Alimosho Local Government Area, following serious allegations of violating procurement procedures and being implicated in chaos that reportedly resulted in the death of a citizen.

The suspension is effective immediately.

During Monday’s plenary session, the lawmakers unanimously voted to suspend Sulaimon, citing his alleged non-compliance and defiance towards the legislative body.

In his absence, Vice Chairman Akinpelu Johnson has been appointed to oversee the council’s operations.

The Assembly also mandated the council’s management team, including the manager and treasurer, to recognize Johnson’s authority and provide him with the necessary support to ensure smooth governance during this transitional period.

During a motion for suspension, Hon. Sanni Okanlawon, the Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government Administration and Chieftaincy Affairs, recounted a chaotic incident in April 2024 at Iyana-Ipaja, Alimosho Local Government, which resulted in the death of Mr. Micheal Ajayi.

Hon. Okanlawon, whose committee was tasked with investigating the incident, revealed that Jelili was identified as the mastermind behind the turmoil.

He noted that although all stakeholders were invited for discussions, Jelili had repeatedly displayed misconduct toward the committee.

He criticised the council chairman for failing to comply with the Assembly’s directives and for mismanaging public funds.

However, he urged for Jelili’s immediate suspension in accordance with the relevant sections of the amended 1999 Constitution, recommending that vice chairman Akin Johnson assume his responsibilities without delay.

Supporting the suspension, Majority Leader Noheem Adams emphasized that such action would encourage accountability among local government chairmen.

He pointed out that the Alimosho council chairman had ignored procurement processes and budgetary regulations, citing numerous instances of misconduct.

Hon. Nureni Akinsanya, the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts for Local Government, referenced a report from the State Auditor-General that highlighted Jelili’s persistent non-compliance with financial regulations, noting significant discrepancies in his records.

He, however, reinforced Okanlawon’s call for Jelili’s suspension.

Similarly, Hon. Ladi Ajomale expressed astonishment at Jelili’s obstinacy despite prior reports outlining his alleged financial mismanagement.

Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh echoed these concerns and suggested that the House invite Mr. Kolade Alabi and Mr. Rasak Ajala, the chairmen of Bariga LCDA and Odi Olowo LCDA, respectively, to address the widespread disregard for governance protocols among council chairmen.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Obasa, who presided over the session, instructed the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, to inform all relevant authorities of the Assembly’s resolution.