The Gbenu Youth Movement has dismissed allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and abuse of office levelled against former Chairman of Badagry West LCDA, Hon. Gbenu Joseph, describing the claims as unfounded, misleading, and politically motivated.
The group was reacting to a petition reportedly submitted to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) by Mr. Ibraheem Semako, who claims to be the president of a group identified as Integrity Youths of Badagry West. According to the Gbenu Youth Movement, the said group is not verifiable, and the petition represents a calculated attempt to tarnish the reputation of a former council chairman with a widely acknowledged record of service.
In a statement made available to the public, the youth movement described Hon. Gbenu Joseph’s administration as one of the most impactful in the history of the LCDA, citing numerous infrastructural, social, and human development projects executed during his tenure.
Among the projects highlighted were the reconstruction efforts on the Owode–Apa Road before federal intervention took over the project, rehabilitation of public schools across all wards, improvements in primary healthcare delivery, rural electrification of communities, installation of solar-powered facilities, construction of access and link roads, and empowerment programmes targeted at youths, artisans, and vulnerable residents.
The group further noted that allegations of corruption and mismanagement fail to consider the financial constraints faced by local governments nationwide, stressing that such challenges do not amount to fraud. It added that council finances under Hon. Gbenu Joseph were handled in line with public service rules and subjected to internal and external audits where applicable.
Addressing claims of illegal acquisition of properties and assets, the Gbenu Youth Movement described them as speculative and baseless, stating that Hon. Gbenu Joseph has legitimate private business interests predating his tenure in office and that no public funds were diverted for personal enrichment.
On claims that residents suffered hardship or preventable deaths, the group demanded clarity from the petitioner, insisting that the former chairman’s administration implemented several welfare and empowerment initiatives, including food distribution to the elderly, cash support to vulnerable individuals, skills acquisition programmes, and provision of start-up tools to artisans.
The youth movement also dismissed allegations of anti-party activities and political sponsorship, noting that Hon. Gbenu Joseph’s leadership fostered unity within the party and contributed significantly to the electoral successes recorded in Badagry West during the last general elections.
While reaffirming Hon. Gbenu Joseph’s readiness to submit to any lawful investigation, the group cautioned against media trials based on unverified claims and urged journalists and members of the public to uphold fairness, balance, and responsible reporting.
The Gbenu Youth Movement concluded that the petition should be seen for what it is — a politically engineered narrative lacking substance and credibility — while affirming that Hon. Gbenu Joseph remains committed to transparency, service, and the rule of law.
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