The Lagos State House of Assembly has rejected as false reports that the 2026 Appropriation Law makes provisions for the purchase of houses in Abuja for members of the legislature. The Assembly said the claim is misleading and part of election-season propaganda.
The disputed allegation surfaced amid political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections. Reports suggested that the Assembly included funds in the 2026 budget to buy residences in Abuja for lawmakers. The claim triggered public criticism and debate online.
The Lagos State House of Assembly clarified its position in a statement issued on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, stressing that no such provision exists in the 2026 budget.
The statement was jointly signed by Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy and Security, and Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh, Chairman of the House Committee on Economic Planning and Budget.
In the statement, the lawmakers described the allegations as “mischievous” and deliberate attempts to misinform the public and malign the legislature. The Assembly said the 2026 budget is already public and can be scrutinised by Lagosians and Nigerians.
Hon. Ogundipe and Hon. Olumoh emphasised that the House of Assembly’s constitutional duties and responsibilities are entirely within Lagos State. They said it is illogical to suggest that public funds would be appropriated for personal housing outside the state.
“There is no provision whatsoever in the 2026 Budget for the purchase of houses in Abuja or anywhere else for members of the Lagos State House of Assembly,” the statement said. The lawmakers stressed that the Assembly does not operate in Abuja and that such allegations are unfounded.
The statement further highlighted that the capital expenditure portion for the House in the 2026 budget represents less than 0.04 per cent of the state’s total capital expenditure, underscoring fiscal restraint and accountability.
“There is no provision whatsoever in the 2026 Budget for the purchase of houses in Abuja or anywhere else for members of the Lagos State House of Assembly,” the Assembly’s statement said.
The lawmakers described the reports as a product of political mischief aimed at misleading the public.
The clarification by the Lagos State House of Assembly underscores the importance of accurate budget reporting and transparent governance, especially during election periods.
Misleading claims about public finances can erode trust in democratic institutions and fuel misinformation.
The Assembly’s statement urged the public to verify information from credible sources to prevent the spread of false narratives.
The Lagos State House of Assembly has firmly denied allegations that the 2026 budget includes provisions for purchasing houses in Abuja for lawmakers.
The legislature cautioned against unverified claims and emphasised its commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility as part of its constitutional mandate to serve Lagos residents.
