Engineer Toyin S. Ganiyu has questioned the recent claim by the member representing Epe Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Abiodun Tobun, that he made history by facilitating the allocation of land to 98 communities in the constituency.
In a statement made available to the press, Engr. Ganiyu described the claim as misleading and called for a clear account of the lawmaker's role in the land allocation process.
He raised questions about whether several affected communities, including the Seven Arapagi Communities, Ori-Okiti, Omipepeye, Dongo, Abegede, and more than 115 villages located in the riverine areas of Ibeju-Lekki, were part of the land allocation exercise. According to him, if they were included, the people deserve a transparent explanation of Hon. Tobun's actual contribution.
Engr. Ganiyu maintained that the lands in question were acquired by the government many years ago, with assurances that affected communities would receive compensation and the return of portions of their ancestral lands. He argued that the eventual allocation was the outcome of years of advocacy, negotiations, legal efforts, and persistent struggles by the affected families and communities.
"The return of part of the acquired land was not a gift from any politician," he said. "It was the result of years of sacrifice, persistence, and the collective efforts of the affected communities. Presenting it as the achievement of one individual undermines the sacrifices made by those who fought for justice."
He further stated that political campaigns should be anchored on verifiable achievements rather than claims that could create a false impression among the electorate.
Engr. Ganiyu urged public office holders to be truthful in their public engagements and to acknowledge the contributions of all stakeholders involved in major developments.
According to him, the people of Epe and Ibeju-Lekki are well informed and capable of distinguishing between genuine accomplishments and political rhetoric. He called on leaders to respect the intelligence of the electorate by presenting facts accurately and giving credit where it is due.
The statement was signed by Engr. Toyin S. Ganiyu.