The Coalition of Ikeja Youths (CIY) has strongly refuted allegations made by Sahara Reporters against Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, accusing him of using a Kaduna College as a front to purchase SUVs for traditional rulers. In a detailed statement signed by the group’s Chairman, Olorunsogo Adeniyi, and Secretary, Blessing Chukwu, the youth organization condemned the claims as baseless and misleading, urging the media outlet to conduct thorough fact-checking before publishing such reports.
The CIY asserted that Hon. Faleke has consistently demonstrated transparency and integrity in his role as a lawmaker. The group clarified that his duties primarily involve selecting projects that benefit his constituents, while the actual contract awards for these projects are handled by the relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), following the provisions of the Procurement Act. This means that Hon. Faleke is not directly involved in the contract award process, contrary to the allegations.
“All constituency projects of Hon. Faleke, including the purchase of vehicles for traditional rulers and community leaders, were properly budgeted for and executed in a transparent manner,” the CIY statement explained. “These vehicles were part of an empowerment initiative for community leaders, who are also constituents of the lawmaker. The vehicles were publicly presented to the beneficiaries, with nothing hidden or suspicious about the process.”
CIY further highlighted the numerous accomplishments of Hon. Faleke in Ikeja Federal Constituency, noting that he has been instrumental in uplifting the lives of residents through various empowerment programs and infrastructure development projects. According to the group, Faleke has successfully removed hundreds of jobless youths from the streets by equipping them with resources to become self-reliant entrepreneurs.
“He has distributed over 400 mini-buses, tricycles, deep freezers, grinding machines, sewing machines, and popcorn-making machines to youth and women in the constituency,” the group stated. “These efforts have provided many people with the tools they need to start small businesses and improve their economic status.”
In addition to his empowerment programs, Faleke has also facilitated the construction and rehabilitation of over 37 roads across different communities within Ikeja Federal Constituency. This has not only enhanced transportation but also improved the overall quality of life for residents.
Faleke’s impact extends beyond economic empowerment and infrastructure. The lawmaker has played a significant role in improving education in the constituency. According to CIY, he has facilitated the construction and renovation of several school buildings, as well as the provision of educational materials, laptops for students, and essential resources for teachers. These interventions have greatly improved the learning environment for students in Ikeja.
The youth group also pointed to Hon. Faleke’s contributions to local security efforts. He has enhanced the operations of police divisions in the constituency by providing vehicles and other security items to boost their capacity to maintain law and order. These interventions have helped create a safer community for the people of Ikeja.
In a bid to clear Hon. Faleke’s name and set the record straight, CIY extended an open invitation to Sahara Reporters, urging the media organization to visit Ikeja for a fact-finding mission. The group encouraged the publication to interact with beneficiaries of Faleke’s numerous initiatives, including caterers, fish farmers, and small-scale traders, to see firsthand how the lawmaker’s constituency projects have positively impacted their lives.
“We challenge Sahara Reporters to send a team to Ikeja to speak with the residents, local leaders, and beneficiaries of Hon. Faleke’s projects,” the statement read. “They will see how his interventions have transformed the lives of many people, especially the youth and women.”
CIY concluded its statement by praising Hon. Faleke as a model representative whose work in Ikeja has set a high standard for quality, effective, and progressive representation, not only in Lagos but across the entire nation.
“We are proud to have Hon. Faleke as our representative in the Green Chamber. His commitment to improving the lives of his constituents is evident in every project he has facilitated. From road construction to youth empowerment, security interventions, and educational improvements, he has consistently delivered results. Instead of maligning him, we believe he deserves commendation and recognition for his tireless efforts.”
The Coalition reaffirmed its support for Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, urging all stakeholders and the media to celebrate leaders who prioritize the welfare of their people.
The rebuttal from CIY underscores the importance of verifying information before making damaging claims. The group expressed its disappointment with the allegations, which it believes are intended to tarnish the reputation of a lawmaker who has consistently delivered for his constituency. By inviting Sahara Reporters to conduct a thorough investigation, CIY has taken a bold step to defend Hon. Faleke and uphold the truth.
As the people of Ikeja Federal Constituency continue to benefit from Hon. Faleke’s initiatives, the CIY remains committed to supporting his efforts to drive progress and development in the region.
