ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs has refuted allegations of corruption in the management of the state’s N1bn Disability Intervention Fund, saying it has commenced an internal investigation into an anonymous kickback allegation while maintaining that no formal complaint was lodged before the claims became public.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, LASODA said reports alleging that its officials demanded kickbacks from beneficiaries misrepresented the situation and reiterated the agency’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the welfare of persons with disabilities.
The agency explained that although it had not received any formal complaint or documented allegation as of June 9, 2026, it immediately initiated a fact-finding exercise after an anonymous WhatsApp message raised concerns over the matter.
According to LASODA, the preliminary investigation identified a suspected officer, prompting the case to be referred to the appropriate superior authority in line with Lagos State Public Service disciplinary procedures.
However, the agency stressed that no disciplinary process had been concluded, contrary to claims contained in the reports.
It noted that any disciplinary measures would be determined by the Lagos State Civil Service Commission after review by the appropriate Personnel Management Board, in accordance with the Civil Service Rules.
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LASODA also rejected claims that disability organisations were blacklisted for refusing to pay kickbacks, explaining that while it maintains a database of hundreds of disability-focused NGOs, homes, centres and associations, it is not possible to provide financial support to every organisation annually.
The office said recognised umbrella associations representing different disability clusters consistently receive annual institutional support, while funding for other organisations is based on programme priorities, available resources, project requirements and established assessment procedures.
The agency further clarified that remarks attributed in the reports to Dr Adebukola Adebayo were made during his tenure as Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, Lagos State chapter, under a previous LASODA administration, noting that he no longer holds the position.
LASODA added that it would continue to strengthen transparency by improving stakeholder engagement, enhancing reporting channels and increasing the digitisation of its intervention processes to minimise unnecessary human interaction.
The office also stated that the N1bn Disability Intervention Fund, approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, remains dedicated to promoting inclusion, economic empowerment, accessibility and improved welfare for persons with disabilities across Lagos State.