In a public address during the inauguration of the Lagos State Building Control Agency Building, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu responded to the recently disclosed procurement record by the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency. He openly admitted that no administration is immune to mistakes but affirmed his commitment to transparency and public accountability.
The governor, while welcoming an open letter from the gubernatorial candidate of the Action Democratic Congress, Funso Doherty, assured the public that the government would continue to publish its spending records for scrutiny. Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation for constructive criticism and emphasized the importance of responsible governance.
"We acknowledge that these are ways we should be doing things. We appreciate criticism. We appreciate the fact that people can look at us in the face that we need to do well in the state," Governor Sanwo-Olu stated in a video clip shared by his aide, Jubril Gawat, on X handle.
Addressing specific discrepancies in the procurement record, the governor highlighted instances where errors occurred in the reported amounts, citing an example where an item meant to be N2 million was mistakenly written as N2 billion.
Sanwo-Olu assured the public that the government is led by a team of dedicated public officials and committed civil servants who are ready to rectify mistakes and serve the people of Lagos diligently. He emphasized the continuous operation of the government website, pledging to maintain transparency by providing accurate information and numbers for public scrutiny.
"Indeed, we can make mistakes, but it is not any intention for us to be unmindful of what public goods are, and to ensure that public goods are what will continue to be respected," Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded, reiterating the administration's dedication to serving the people of Lagos with integrity and commitment.