Lagos Council Chair Animashaun Dismisses Financial Misconduct, Plagiarism Allegations, Says Move Politically Motivated
On Saturday, SaharaReporters reported that the group accused Animashahun of plagiarism, demanding a public apology within 72 hours or threatening legal action.
The Chairperson of Epe Local Government in Lagos State, Princess Surah Olayemi Animashahun, has denied allegations leveled against her administration by a local group, Epe Young Professionals.
On Saturday, SaharaReporters reported that the group accused Animashahun of plagiarism, demanding a public apology within 72 hours or threatening legal action.
The allegations stem from a recent press statement by the chairman, which the group claims was directly copied from a 2015 address by former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola.
https://saharareporters.com/2025/03/15/lagos-council-chairman-animashaun-accused-plagiarising-ex-gov-fasholas-2015-address
The group also accused Animashahun of multiple misconduct, including financial mismanagement, certificate forgery, and unauthorised sale of government properties.
Refuting the allegations, Animashahun in a statement she personally signed and issued on Sunday claimed that the allegations are baseless, adding that they are politically motivated and orchestrated to distract her administration.
On alleged plagiarism, Animashahun said a quotation she had used in the statement which is being attributed to Fashola is a widely recognised statement that can be used by anyone.
Animashahun stated, “These allegations, which include claims of financial mismanagement, plagiarism, certificate forgery, and unauthorized sale of government properties, are entirely baseless and politically motivated attempts to distract from the ongoing development efforts in Epe.
“As the first female Chairman of Epe Local Government, I remain committed to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
“The claim regarding plagiarism is unfounded. The statement I referenced in my report, which has been attributed to former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, is a widely recognised statement used in public discourse.
“Such expressions are common in governance and leadership, and as such, the allegation lacks merit.
“All my credentials were thoroughly vetted and verified by the appropriate authorities before I assumed office.
“If there had been any discrepancies, I would not have been cleared to contest in the first place. I encourage the public to verify my academic and professional qualifications through the relevant screening bodies.”
On the allegation of financial mismanagement, she said her administration has consistently provided transparent stewardship reports, and all financial transactions have been duly accounted for.
“Government financial monitoring agencies responsible for overseeing public allocations have never raised concerns about any financial mismanagement. If any infractions had occurred, the appropriate authorities would have taken action,” she said.
On the alleged sale of government properties, Animashahun stated, “The claim that my administration engaged in the unauthorised sale of government properties is entirely false.
“The items in question, including telecommunications masts and generators, had deteriorated and posed significant safety risks.
“With the necessary approvals from the relevant ministry, these items were removed to prevent further hazards.
“The individual referred to as ‘aboki’ was merely assisting in clearing debris from the council premises, and no financial transactions or negotiations took place.”
According to her, the “false allegations are clearly part of a political agenda aimed at discrediting my leadership and diminishing my chances of securing a second term in office”.
She said, “However, leadership is ordained by God, as stated in Romans 13:1-2, and no amount of propaganda can derail our commitment to the people of Epe.
“As a product of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, my administration remains steadfast in delivering impactful governance and driving sustainable development in our community.
“We will not be deterred by baseless accusations but will continue to work for the progress and prosperity of Epe.”
