Ogun Govt Debunks Report On Alleged N7.5b Navy Land Demand
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The Ogun State Government has firmly denied recent allegations made by Peoples Gazette that Governor Dapo Abiodun demanded N7.5 billion from the Nigerian Navy after supposedly handing over 100 hectares of land for a naval base and dockyard in the Abigi community.
In a press statement issued by Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to the Governor, the government described the report as “mischievous, misleading, and libelous.” The statement clarified that the land was provided to the Navy free of charge as part of efforts to enhance national security.
According to the government, the Nigerian Navy had requested land in Ogun State for the construction of a Forward Operating Base and dockyard. A committee comprising officials from both the Ogun State Government and the Navy, including representatives from the Bureau of Lands, was established to address this request. Although the Navy initially sought 150 hectares, the committee allocated 100 hectares.
The Bureau of Lands reportedly prepared a provisional survey and included a standard cost estimate of N7.5 billion, which was submitted to the Governor for consideration. However, Governor Abiodun, citing the importance of national security, directed that the land be granted to the Navy at no cost. Consequently, a proper survey plan was executed, and a Certificate of Occupancy was issued, which has been registered at the Abeokuta Land Registry.
The government emphasized that the report by *Peoples Gazette* is unfounded and politically motivated, intended to tarnish the Governor’s reputation. The statement challenged critics to verify the facts, asserting that the documents related to the land transfer are available for public scrutiny.
The Ogun State Government has urged the public to disregard the report, labeling it as a “horrendous con job” and “fake news.”