Anti-graft Agency targets corruption eradication in Oyo state

The Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) says it is determined to end corruption in the state to enable rapid development.

The OYACA Chairman, Retired Justice Eni Esan, gave the assurance at a news conference to mark International Anti-Corruption Day in Ibadan on Friday.

The Supreme reports that the theme of International Anti-Corruption Day is "Uniting the World Against Corruption."

Esan said that corruption is a recurring problem hindering the economy of Nigeria and affecting all areas of the society.

She said that eradicating corruption in Oyo State would help the development of the state and Nigeria in general.

The chairman said that the agency has achieved a lot in fighting corruption and curbing corruption practices since the commencement of operation in April 2021, vowing that it would continue its job until corruption is eradicated in the state.

She said that the agency has so far received over 136 petitions on different cases of corruption which have been thoroughly investigated and some forwarded to the State Attorney-General for prosecution.

According to Esan, investigations on 43 of the petitions had been concluded by the agency, 40 are still being investigated while 28 have been abandoned by the petitioners.

She further said that eight petitions have had their investigations concluded and forwarded to the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice for prosecution.

Five of them are already in court undergoing prosecution, she said.

The chairman said that the agency recently handed over money to 17 petitioners from Ogbomoso who were defrauded by some government officials.

Esan further said that the agency is currently investigating the disappearance of N4.8 billion from government coffers which was given to some contractors in 2018 to execute some contracts.

She said that the agency would continue to perform its constitutional mandate without bias or interference from any quarters.

Esan said combating corruption is the collective responsibility of all citizens of Oyo State and solicited their cooperation in order for the agency to discharge its duties effectively.

NAN reports that the highlight of the event was a road walk and lecture to sensitise the people on the need to shun corruption.

Present at the news conference are board members of the agency, Prince Oyebade Oyedepo, Deaconess Esther Olopade, and Executive Secretary, Mr Ibrahim Tijani, among others.