morgANABLE politics/Governance
Femi Gbajabiamila said the outcome of the investigations reaffirmed his innocence, adding that reports of the probes were publicly available
KaNo—
The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, on Saturday said investigations by key law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies had cleared him of any wrongdoing over allegations linked to his office.
Gbajabiamila disclosed this at the 2026 Gbaja Mega Empowerment programme held in Surulere, Lagos, where thousands of residents benefited from cash grants, vehicles and business support initiatives.
He said probes conducted by the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission found no evidence implicating him in the allegations.
“The past few months have tested me in ways I never expected. Stories were written, strange accusations were made, lies were told, and my integrity was questioned,” he said.
According to him, the outcome of the investigations reaffirmed his innocence, adding that reports of the probes were publicly available.
“At the end of all the investigations, the Nigerian Police, the DSS, the ICPC cleared me of any wrongdoing, and the investigative reports are in the public domain,” Gbajabiamila stated.
The Chief of Staff noted that the experience underscored the pressures and scrutiny that often accompany public office, particularly for those aspiring to leadership positions.
“For those who seek high office, especially our young ones, sometimes this is the high price you have to pay and sacrifice you have to make. Do not be discouraged,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for allowing due process to prevail despite calls for swift action during the controversy.
“I must thank my principal, President Bola Tinubu. Many people wanted him to rush to judgment and give a verdict before the investigation. He refused and insisted on due process,” he added.
Gbajabiamila maintained that he remained focused on his duties and would not be distracted by what he described as attempts to tarnish his reputation.
“No amount of money, no amount of blackmail or lies, whether sponsored from within or outside, will detract me from my work and the work Mr President has given me to do,” he said.
The allegations against him were linked to the activities of a purported Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council, which triggered investigations by relevant authorities. Gbajabiamila had appeared before the ICPC in July 2026 as part of the probe.
The anti-corruption agency later stated that it found no evidence connecting him or his office to the organisation or the appointment of its alleged leadership.
He further warned individuals using his name to defraud unsuspecting members of the public to desist, noting that the law would take its course.
“And to anyone using my name to defraud people or misrepresent me, know that the law will always catch up with you,” he said.
Beyond addressing the allegations, the Chief of Staff used the occasion to roll out a large-scale empowerment initiative targeted at residents of Surulere, his constituency.
He said the programme, valued at about N1.15bn, was designed to provide direct economic support to approximately 5,000 beneficiaries through financial grants, vehicles, equipment and other resources.
According to him, the initiative was carefully planned to ensure transparency and fairness in the selection of beneficiaries.
“In June earlier this year, we shifted this event. It was not an easy decision, but I wanted to ensure everything sent in by wards and trade associations were properly checked,” he explained.
“I did not want anyone to collect what was meant for another person.”
Gbajabiamila described the initiative as a “Mega Empowerment” programme, noting that the scale of the intervention distinguished it from previous efforts.
“Let me say again, there are about 5,000 beneficiaries in one day. That is why we call it Mega Empowerment. This is not a token gesture,” he said.
He disclosed that 3,905 beneficiaries received N250,000 each, while another 348 individuals were given N500,000 to support their businesses.
In addition to cash grants, beneficiaries received various assets, including 61 electric vehicles, 50 electric tricycles and 60 minibuses, as well as 100 laptops to support digital and entrepreneurial activities.
Other items distributed included four Toyota HiAce 18-seater buses, two security patrol vehicles, one ambulance and two additional utility vehicles.
Gbajabiamila said the programme combined both electric and conventional vehicles, reflecting a deliberate effort to promote cleaner energy solutions in the transportation sector.
“This was deliberate. Step by step, this administration is keeping to the commitment to renewable and clean energy,” he said.
He further announced plans to install electric vehicle charging stations within the constituency to support the growing adoption of e-mobility solutions.
According to him, the initiative is expected to reduce transportation costs, create employment opportunities and improve environmental sustainability.
“Today, some Nigerian automobile companies are producing and assembling electric and CNG-powered vehicles globally. That means more jobs for our people, cheaper transport and better air quality,” he said.
The Chief of Staff also highlighted the continued operation of the Gajarai transportation scheme, which provides free rides for students and subsidised transport services for all residents.
He said the programme was part of broader efforts to ease the burden of transportation costs on vulnerable groups.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, commended the initiative and described it as a demonstration of responsive governance.
He said the All Progressives Congress had remained committed to engaging citizens at the grassroots and addressing their needs through practical interventions.
According to him, the strength of the party lies in its ability to maintain close connections with the people beyond election cycles.
“That is why our party is the party of the people,” Hamzat said.
He added that governance should not be limited to electoral victories but should focus on sustained engagement and delivery of tangible benefits.
“It’s not about that. It’s about relating with our citizens,” he said.
Hamzat noted that the party understood its responsibility to improve the welfare of Nigerians and would continue to implement programmes that directly impact communities.
“So our party understands that our political party was formed just to take care of our people. And that’s what we are doing,” he added.
The empowerment programme attracted community leaders, party stakeholders and beneficiaries, many of whom expressed appreciation for the support received.
For Gbajabiamila, the event marked both a reaffirmation of his political standing following months of scrutiny and a continuation of his constituency development efforts.
He reiterated his commitment to public service, saying he would remain focused on delivering on his mandate despite challenges.
The Chief of Staff said the experience had strengthened his resolve and underscored the importance of integrity and accountability in governance.
