Lagos Debunks ₦4.2bn Furniture & Mic Claim

The Lagos State Government has set the record straight on reports making the rounds that ₦4.2 billion was earmarked in the 2026 budget solely for office furniture and microphones at the Office of the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget and made available to NaijaChoice News, the government described the allegation as a clear case of misinterpretation of the approved capital provisions.

The ministry explained that the figure of ₦4,247,816,006 represents the total capital allocation for the entire Office of the Deputy Governor for the 2026 fiscal year, and not a dedicated amount for furniture and microphones as widely claimed on social media.

Of this total, the sum of ₦4,077,816,006 is specifically earmarked for the reconstruction of the Round House complex — a six-storey facility housing over 50 offices. The project covers structural upgrades, retrofitting works, provision of alternative energy infrastructure, and other essential improvements to the building.

The balance of ₦170 million, according to the statement, will cater for the purchase of office equipment, furniture and fittings, and other related capital items.

NaijaChoice News gathered that the controversy erupted after screenshots of the budget breakdown went viral on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, with some online commentators claiming the funds were meant for 10 executive tables and chairs, 40 visitor chairs, 120 officers’ tables and chairs, plus 30 microphones for the conference room.

The ministry, however, attached clear screenshots of the relevant pages from the budget master sheet for public verification and urged media houses and stakeholders to always cross-check facts through official channels before publishing.

“The Government reiterates that budgetary provisions are guided by due process, fiscal discipline, and established accounting standards. Stakeholders and media organizations are encouraged to seek clarification through appropriate channels to ensure accurate reporting,” the statement stressed.

This development comes barely weeks after the Lagos State House of Assembly passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill tagged “Budget of Shared Prosperity,” with a total size of ₦4.44 trillion.

The ministry regretted any misunderstanding arising from the classification of the items and reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to the prudent and transparent management of public resources for the overall development of the state.