Osun State Government and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), on Monday, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to focus on anti-corruption initiatives, public education, and activities designed to enhance integrity and accountability within the state.
Speaking at the programme held at the state government house, Osogbo, the governor said his administration is elated to partner with the ICPC to further deepen good governance, especially in terms of anti-corruption protocols.
According to him, “the anti-corruption agencies have delicate assignments which demand the support and cooperation of those holding top government offices. Our government is elated to partner with the ICPC to further deepen good governance, especially in terms of anti-corruption protocols. The anti-corruption agencies have delicate assignments which demand the support and cooperation of those holding top government offices. Our government is today demonstrating this political will by entering into a partnership with the ICPC on project monitoring and evaluation.
“I have no doubt that this agreement will enhance existing quality assurance and also expand the anti-corruption infrastructure within Osun state.
“The ambitious agenda had surprised both friends and foes when I announced the plan in December 2023. Many challenged our government on how and where we are going to get the funding. The scale of the projects listed in the plan raises so much dust as this is the first of its kind in the history of Osun state.
“But we assured the public then that we will ensure full implementation of the infra plan through financial discipline and a new tone in the management of state finance. Our government rolled out several initiatives then which included the creation of special project accounts, blocking leakages in the revenue collection system, increase in internally generated revenue, reduction of overhead cost as well as deliberately saving from government earnings.
“Midway into the implementation period, I am happy to report that we have made significant headway. The projects are ongoing in line with the approved schedule and supervised by tested professionals in the field.
“As the infra plan is being implemented in phases, the first phase has reached an advanced stage. Our government has turned Osun into a huge construction site with all the Senatorial districts and local government benefits.
“Mr Chairman, permit me to inform you and your team that my sole ambition in this governorship is selfless public service. As God has blessed me and my family before attaining this office, we are giving back to the people by ensuring judicious application of public funds and resources.
“During the inauguration of my cabinet, I openly warned those with a corrupt mindset should opt out before it is too late. We apply rigorous vetting in the financial approval process. We ensure the enforcement of the procurement laws without fear or favour.”
In his own speech, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, Chairman of ICPC remarked, “Today’s signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Osun State Government is a historic step forward. Leveraging the directives of UNCAC, our Constitution (as amended), and the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, we commit to a robust partnership focused on anti-corruption initiatives, public education, and activities designed to enhance integrity and accountability within Osun State.
“As the Chairman of the ICPC and a former State Attorney General, I firmly believe that the fight against corruption cannot be won by any single individual or agency. It requires the concerted efforts of all stakeholders in the three tiers of government.
“Our collaboration with the Osun State Government is a testament to this belief. Together, we will galvanize support, implement necessary preventive measures, and adopt a more effective strategy in our battle against corruption. This also aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda for “improved governance for effective service delivery.
“This collaboration embodies our collective resolve to combat corruption and foster a culture of integrity and accountability in Osun State.
“I want to take this moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Executive Governor of Osun State, His Excellency Senator Ademola Adeleke, for his unwavering support and commitment to making this event a reality.”
He, however, said the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in Article 5(2) mandates that “Each state party shall endeavour to establish and promote effective practices aimed at the prevention of corruption and Constitution of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) also enshrines the principle that “The State shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power. These foundational texts provide a clear directive: corruption in any form must be eradicated for our nation to thrive.
“We are tasked with evaluating and reviewing public bodies’ practices, systems, and procedures to identify and mitigate fraud or corruption. We instruct, advise, and assist officers, agencies, and parastatals in combating these issues. We recommend necessary changes to reduce bribery and corruption, educate the public on related offences, and garner public support in this vital fight. These provisions have been affirmed by the Supreme Court in the case of the Attorney General of Ondo State v Attorney General of the Federation and Others, reinforcing our mandate,” he concluded.
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