- signs Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
The Executive Governor of Osun state, Governor Ademola Adeleke on Monday, partnered with Independent Corrupt Practices And Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC), while assuring that the partnership will expand the anti-corruption agenda within the state.
The Governor gave the assurance while receiving the ICPC Chairman with other directors at the government house in Osogbo,the state capital.
While speaking, Adeleke noted that Osun state is a state with zero tolerance for Corruption and also a state where the government is implementing a multi-billion naira infrastructure agenda
He said, “We welcome the ICPC into our dear state where our government has zero tolerance for corruption. You are in Osun State where our government is implementing a multi-billion naira infrastructure agenda.
“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 include creation of special project accounts, blocking leakages in revenue collection system, increase in internally generated revenue, reduction of overhead cost as well as deliberately saving from governments 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 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 benefitting.
“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 enforcement of the procurement laws without fear or favour”, he stated.
The Governor, however announced that the state government is elated to partner with ICPC to further deepen good governance especially in term of anti-corruption protocols.
“Our government is therefore elated to partner with the ICPC to further deepen good governance especially in term 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 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”, he noted.
Earlier in his address, the Chairman of ICPC, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu emphasized that ICPC is committed to a robust partnership focused on anti-corruption initiatives, public education, and activities designed to enhance integrity and accountability within Osun State.
According to him, “Today’s signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Osun State Government is a historic step forward.
“Leveraging the directives of United Nation Cooperation Against Corruption 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 galvanise support, implement necessary preventive measures, and adopt a more effective strategy in our battle against corruption”, he noted.
The ICPC boss further explained that the MoU move with Osun State Government aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda for “improved governance for effective service delivery.”
