Calls for Evidence as Political Debate Over “Stolen Projects” Intensifies

Olusola Agbalu, Anchor of Politics And You, has called for greater transparency and evidence-based public debate following a campaign message attributed to Hon. Ladi Adebutu urging Ogun State residents to “reject stolen projects.”

Agbalu questioned the basis of the allegation, asking that specific projects described as “stolen” be identified and supported with verifiable documentation.

He said that if any project was improperly awarded, relocated, duplicated or funded, the appropriate details—including the original location, budget, contractor, procurement process and relevant government records—should be made available for public scrutiny.

His position comes against the backdrop of Ogun State’s publicly accessible e-procurement system, which provides information on government procurement activities, including project titles, procuring entities, contractors, contract sums and, in some cases, award and commencement dates.

According to Agbalu, political disagreements should not prevent citizens from examining the potential benefits of legitimate public infrastructure.

“How can anyone ask Ogun people to reject projects meant for their own communities?”

He argued that projects such as roads, schools, healthcare facilities, power infrastructure, the agro-cargo airport and other investments should be assessed based on their purpose, implementation and impact rather than solely on which politician or administration facilitated them.

Agbalu further maintained that public projects are ultimately the property of the people and should not be treated as the personal achievements of individual politicians.

“Public projects do not belong personally to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi or any politician. They belong to Ogun State and its people,” he said.

He stressed that allegations of corruption should be subjected to proper investigation where evidence exists, rather than being established solely through political messaging.

“If Ladi Adebutu believes that a project was stolen, duplicated or corruptly awarded, he should produce the evidence and allow the appropriate institutions to investigate,” Agbalu stated.

He also urged Ogun residents to demand transparency from every administration while recognising genuine development initiatives that can improve infrastructure, create economic opportunities and support communities.

“Ogun people should reject misinformation—not development. They should demand transparency while supporting every genuine project that will improve their lives and strengthen the state’s economy,” he added.

Agbalu concluded by calling for political discourse in Ogun State to remain focused on verifiable facts, accountability and the development needs of residents.

Politics must never become an excuse to oppose progress, he said.

Olusola Agbalu
Anchor, Politics And You