The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs has commenced an investigation into allegations that some of its officials demanded kickbacks from beneficiaries of the state’s N1 billion Disability Intervention Fund.
The agency, however, denied allegations of corruption, saying it had not received any formal complaint or documented petition before the allegations were published.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, LASODA said it launched an internal fact-finding exercise after receiving an anonymous WhatsApp message concerning the alleged demand for kickbacks.
The agency said the preliminary inquiry led to the identification of an officer suspected to be involved, adding that the matter had been referred to the appropriate superior authority in accordance with the disciplinary procedures of the Lagos State Public Service.
LASODA stressed that the investigation had not resulted in any concluded disciplinary action against the officer, contrary to claims in some reports.
It explained that any decision on disciplinary measures would be taken by the Lagos State Civil Service Commission after the matter had been considered by the relevant Personnel Management Board and in line with the state’s Civil Service Rules.
The agency said, “Although no formal complaint or documented allegation had been submitted to the office as of June 9, 2026, it immediately launched a fact-finding exercise after receiving an anonymous WhatsApp message on the issue.”
LASODA also rejected allegations that some disability organisations were excluded from government support because they declined to pay kickbacks.
According to the agency, it keeps a register of several disability-focused non-governmental organisations, homes, centres and associations, but available funds do not allow every registered organisation to receive financial assistance each year.
It explained that institutional support was routinely provided to recognised umbrella bodies representing various disability groups, while assistance to other organisations was determined by factors including government priorities, available funding, project requirements and established assessment procedures.
The agency also clarified the status of comments attributed to Dr Adebukola Adebayo in reports concerning the allegations.
LASODA said Adebayo made the comments while serving as Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Lagos State during a previous administration of the agency and no longer holds the position.
The agency said it remained committed to improving transparency and accountability in the management of disability interventions across the state.
It said measures being considered include stronger engagement with stakeholders, improved channels for reporting complaints and increased digitisation of intervention processes.
According to LASODA, greater use of digital systems would help reduce unnecessary physical interactions between officials and beneficiaries and minimise opportunities for misconduct.
The agency maintained that the N1 billion Disability Intervention Fund, approved by the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, remained focused on improving the lives of persons with disabilities.
It said the fund was established to promote social inclusion, economic empowerment, accessibility and improved welfare for people living with disabilities across Lagos State.
LASODA assured the public that the allegations would be investigated appropriately and that relevant procedures would be followed in determining any necessary disciplinary action.
