The Lagos State House of Assembly has suspended Jelili Sulaimon, the Chairperson of Alimosho Local Government Area, due to allegations of misconduct and non-compliance.
The suspension took immediate effect and was announced during a plenary session on Monday, October 7.
In a unanimous vote, lawmakers decided that Vice Chairman Akinpelu Johnson would take over the council's responsibilities during Sulaimon’s absence. The House also instructed the council's management team, including the manager and treasurer, to fully support Johnson in his new role.
The motion for suspension was introduced by Sanni Okanlawon, chairperson of the House Committee on Local Government Administration and Chieftaincy Affairs. He cited sections of the 1999 Constitution, accusing Sulaimon of defying legislative orders and showing a consistent unwillingness to comply.
“He should be suspended immediately while Akin Johnson takes over right away,” Okanlawon stated during the session.
Okanlawon also referenced the April 2024 unrest in Iyana-Ipaja, which led to the death of a man named Michael Ajayi, claiming that Sulaimon had allegedly instigated the violence. Despite several invitations, Sulaimon reportedly continued to act inappropriately and failed to cooperate with the assembly's investigations.
Majority Leader Noheem Adams backed the suspension, emphasizing that it would serve as a warning to other local government chairpersons about the importance of proper governance.
“The Alimosho council chairman does not adhere to procurement processes or the budget. There has been significant misconduct, and I support his indefinite suspension,” Adams commented.
Additionally, Nureni Akinsanya, Chairperson of the House Committee on Public Accounts for Local Government, pointed out financial irregularities in Sulaimon's management, as revealed in a report by the State Auditor-General.
Other lawmakers, including Ladi Ajomale, expressed frustration over Sulaimon's repeated disregard for previous reports of financial mismanagement, noting his obstinate behavior despite clear warnings