By Adeyinka Adeniran
The chairman of Oyo State Anti Corruption Agency, (OYACA) Justice Eni Esan (rtd) has revealed that over 300 corruption cases have been investigated since the inception of the Agency in 2021.
Speaking during a chat with the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade who paid her an official visit in her office, Justice Esan said the agency has made significant strides in investigating cases of corruption adding that 14 cases are currently being tried.
According to the OYACA chair, a large sum of money have been recovered from politicians, contractors, civil/public servants among others.
She revealed that states like Kano, Kaduna Jigawa, Ondo, Lagos, Cross Rivers have come to understudy the anti-corruption blueprint of OYACA in a bid to intensify the fight against corruption in their respective states.
She further revealed that the OYACA‘s mandate is to promote ethical conduct, preventing corrupt practices, and protecting public resources from mismanagement and embezzlement
“Corruption fighting begins with sensitization on prevention. The agency has initiated this process by educating traditional leaders, tertiary institutions in Oyo state, civil/public servants, members of the judiciary and other stakeholders in the campaign”, she said.
Justice Esan disclosed that the state is determined to create a culture of transparency and accountability, where corruption is reduced to the barest minimum
“While we are committed to zero tolerance for corruption, we also recognize the importance of due process and ensuring that individuals are given a fair hearing to defend themselves against any allegations”, she added.
Justice Esan assured that all cases brought before the Agency are treated with confidentiality.
Responding, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, appreciated the sensitive task of the agency and assured that the Ministry will periodically sensitize the public on the agency’s activities in line with the state government’s determination to rid the state of corruption.
