Adeyemi Ikuforiji, former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly has pointed out that he never took one dime from the public coffers other than what he is entitled to officially
During an interview with ARISE NEWS on Thursday, Ikuforiji emphasised the integrity he maintained while in office and expressed frustration over the lack of trust Nigerians have in their leaders.
“It is sad that the general populace will elect people into office and expect that everyone they elect only goes there to steal from the public,” he remarked.
Ikuforiji pointed out that leaders are not imported from the moon but are among the people. He recounted a recent incident where a House of Representatives member disclosed his monthly earnings on the floor of the House.
“Those who brought up the video did it on purpose to tarnish the image of the House of Reps and the National Assembly members, just to make the representatives look bad before the people,” he said.
Reflecting on his tenure, Ikuforiji shared that he was investigated by the anti-grant agency for over three months, which found nothing wrong.
“The one who led the search said this is the neatest and tidiest books he has ever found in any government department since he started working for the agency,” he proudly noted.
Ikuforiji served as Speaker for 10 years and faced legal battles for more than 12 years. He emphasised the need for Nigerians to reconsider their perception of leaders.
“We all have our problems, and it is a national one. There’s a need to look at our value system and revalue it,” he said.
While he believes elected officials should be held to higher standards and accountable, Ikuforiji also urged the public to understand that not every officeholder is there to pilfer. He highlighted that his case proves that some allegations are manufactured.
“Some leaders are still honest,” he asserted.
Ikuforiji also commented on the broader issues facing Nigeria, such as reduced food production and the need for the nation to return to its agricultural roots.
“We just want to import, and that cannot help this nation,” he said, advocating for a return to the agricultural practices of 40-50 years ago to reinvent society.
In conclusion, Ikuforiji expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future under the current administration, stating, “Tomorrow looks better with this present administration. I look forward to a better Nigeria.”
Nneoma Udensi
Follow us on:
