By Oluwayanmife Ayobami
The Lagos State Government has come forward to defend its decision to allocate ₦440,750,000 for the purchase of a brand new Lexus LX 600 bulletproof Sport Utility Vehicle for the office of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde.
This move has sparked public debate and scrutiny, with Funso Doherty, the governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Congress, questioning the substantial budgetary allocation for the vehicle.
In response to the public outcry, the Lagos State Government, through a press release signed by the Director General of the Lagos State Procurement Agency, Fatai Onafowote, has justified the expenditure, stating that it is in line with the current economic conditions of the country.
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Tayo Ayinde is the chief of staff
The government emphasized that the decision to procure the ₦440 million SUV for the Chief of Staff’s office is in accordance with prevailing economic realities.
This development comes after Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu appointed Tayo Ayinde as his Chief of Staff in June.
The government’s stance on the matter seeks to address concerns raised by the public and provide clarity regarding the allocation of funds for the luxury vehicle amidst broader economic considerations.
READ ALSO: Babajide Sanwo-Olu urges accountants to prioritize value
Sanwo-Olu reopens Eko bridge
In another news, on Saturday, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State announced the reopening of the Apongbon bridge, which was severely damaged by fire on March 23, 2022.
The fire engulfed several shops in the Apongbon section of the Eko Bridge, destroying many properties.
Addressing the public, Governor Sanwo-Olu shared the news that the Federal Government had declared the reopening of both the Eko and Apongbon Bridges, which had been closed to traffic for several months.
