The President’s Chief of Staff (CoS), Femi Gbajabiamila, has disputed online reports that a large sum of money was allotted for the refurbishment of his mansion in the 2024 Appropriation Bill.
There has been a backlash, particularly on social media, in response to accusations that N10 billion was allocated for the restoration of the Chief of Staff apartment, as well as N10.1 billion for his computer software.
Gbajabiamila, in a tweet on his official X handle, stated that there is no provision in the 2024 Appropriation Bill for the refurbishment of his property, and that he resides in his own flat.
He said the amount quoted online was for renovating the Presidential Quarters in Dodan Barracks and the Vice President’s Lodge in Lagos.
The former Speaker of the House of Representatives added that the renovation includes overhauling the information management and communications facilities in the Presidency to meet modern standards and to provide vehicles for the staff of the Presidency.
“It has become necessary to clarify that there is no provision in the 2024 Appropriation Bill for the renovation of any residence for the Chief of Staff to the President. I live in my private residence,” he wrote.
Gbajabiamila said healthy public debate about government actions requires responsibility and engagement based on facts rather than insinuations.