The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has denied allegations of corruption in the administration of the ₦1 billion Disability Intervention Fund, announcing that it has commenced an internal investigation following media reports alleging kickback demands and irregularities in the disbursement of financial support to persons with disabilities.
In a statement issued by the agency, LASODA reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of persons with disabilities, while acknowledging the concerns raised in the reports and expressing sympathy for families whose experiences underscored the importance of ensuring that disability interventions reach those who need them most.
Responding to allegations that some officials demanded kickbacks before processing requests for financial assistance, the agency stated that, as of June 9, 2026, it had not received any formal complaint or documented allegation before the reports were published. According to LASODA, its first knowledge of the claims came through an anonymous WhatsApp message.
Despite the absence of a formal complaint, the agency said it immediately initiated an internal fact-finding exercise. Preliminary findings reportedly led to the identification of a suspected officer, and the matter has since been referred to the appropriate supervisory authority in line with the Lagos State Public Service disciplinary procedures.
LASODA clarified that no internal disciplinary proceedings have been concluded, noting that the appropriate Personnel Management Board will review the case, while the Lagos State Civil Service Commission will determine any disciplinary action where necessary.
The agency also rejected claims that disability organisations are blacklisted for refusing to pay kickbacks. It explained that with hundreds of registered disability-focused non-governmental organisations, homes, centres, and associations across Lagos State, it is impossible to provide direct financial support to every organisation each year.
According to the Office, annual institutional support is consistently provided to recognised umbrella associations representing various disability clusters, while other organisations are selected based on programme priorities, available resources, project requirements, and established assessment procedures. It stressed that exclusion from a particular funding cycle should not be interpreted as blacklisting.
LASODA further clarified that comments attributed in media reports to Dr. Adebukola Adebayo were made during his tenure as Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Lagos State Chapter, under a previous administration of the agency. It noted that he no longer occupies that position and urged that stakeholder comments be viewed within their proper historical and administrative context.
Reaffirming its commitment to good governance, the agency disclosed plans to strengthen stakeholder engagement, improve reporting mechanisms, and continue the digitisation of its intervention processes to reduce unnecessary human interaction and enhance public confidence.
LASODA also reiterated that the ₦1 billion Disability Intervention Fund, approved by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, reflects the Lagos State Government’s commitment to promoting inclusion, accessibility, economic empowerment, and improved welfare for persons with disabilities.
The Office pledged to continue administering the fund with integrity, fairness, transparency, and accountability, while ensuring that government interventions reach their intended beneficiaries.
