As part of efforts to rid the state off systemic corruption, Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde on Tuesday inaugurated members of the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA).
At the swearing-in ceremony held at the Executive Chamber, Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, Governor Makinde noted that the journey to today’s inauguration about a year ago with the signing of the Oyo State anti- corruption into law 2019. The Governor said the law is primarily directed at sanitising the public and civil service and ensuring that both public and civil servants at state and Local Government levels carry out their responsibilities without institutionalized corruption.
Makinde stressed that systemic corruption remains the major factor retarding the growth and development of the country noting that when a public servant spends more than his earnings, corruption becomes institutionalized. He said today’s inauguration is a clear message that his administration has zero tolerance for corruption.
Makinde however said any public or elected official engage in any capacity in Oyo State who accepts or promises to accept money,gifts, donations or any other rewards for rendering a service to members of the public will be investigated and be made to face the full wrath of the law. He charged members of the agency to handle all matters brought to them without any preferential treatment.
Makinde noted that the agency has nothing to do with politics and that it wasn’t established to witch hunt anybody.
Speaking with journalists after the inauguration, the pioneer chairman of the agency, retired Justice Eni Esan promised that members will come up with quality measures and strategies that will aide the fight against corruption. She noted that corruption has adversely affected the country and ensure that they support the Governor to eradicate corruption at public sector.
Members of the agency include: Prince Oyebade Oyedepo, Barrister Temitayo Ayorinde, Deaconess Esther Olapade, A.S Ashaolu, Ehindero Lawrence while Ibrahim Oyemola will serve as the agency’s secretary.
