The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Nigeria’s leading anti-corruption and human rights organization, has formally petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun for alleged fraudulent misrepresentation of a private rice farm as a World Bank-assisted project under the Ogun State Government.
HEDA petition, signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, follows a report published by Peoples Gazette on September 12, 2024, revealing that Governor Abiodun falsely claimed ownership of a rice farm belonging to Mr. Bello Zabarmawa, a Special Adviser to the Governor of Kebbi State.
The rice farm, located in Ogun State, had been leased by Mr. Zabarmawa, who registered it under “Young Service Grow” using “Alubarika Farms.” He had personally invested N6 million to lease 220 hectares of land and provided interest-free loans to about 200 farmers for rice cultivation. The Ogun State government had supported the project by covering 50% of the cost for clearing the land and contributing to fertilizer costs.
According to Mr. Zabarmawa, when the rice was ready for harvest, Governor Abiodun visited the farm and falsely paraded it as a solely Ogun State Government project, reportedly supported by the World Bank. This alleged misinformation raises concerns about potential attempts to misappropriate World Bank funds allocated for agricultural development in Ogun State.
Meanwhile, HEDA is deeply concerned by the governor’s actions, which appear to reflect a broader trend of political leaders exploiting public resources for personal gain. The anti-corruption organization has further urged the EFCC to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter, including the alleged misrepresentation and potential diversion of funds meant for public agricultural projects. If found culpable, HEDA insists that Governor Abiodun and any other individuals involved must be held accountable and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
According to Suraju, “Nigeria has endured too many years of poor governance and corruption at the hands of leaders who prioritize personal enrichment over the welfare of citizens. HEDA remains committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance across all levels of government, and it calls on the EFCC to act swiftly in addressing this serious issue.”
“HEDA acknowledges the efforts of the EFCC in the ongoing fight against corruption and looks forward to the findings of this investigation.” Suraju concluded.
