Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has signed the Oyo State Anti
Corruption Bill 2019 into law.
The Governor, who assented to the bill passed last week by the State
House of Assembly, said that his assent was a signal his government
was ready to enforce probity and accountability.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Taiwo Adisa,
confirmed that Governor Makinde, immediately after his assent
transferred the law to the Attorney General and Commissioner for
Justice, Prof Oyelowo Oyewo for further administrative actions.
The Governor had, as part of initial declarations upon assumption of
office declared that the state under his watch would establish its own
anti-corruption agency to ensure probity, accountability and good
governance.
While signing the bill into law on Wednesday, Governor Makinde said:
“We have just signed the anti-corruption law for Oyo State. There is
nothing to be afraid of. Why we have domesticated the anti-corruption
law is just as we want the governance to get closer to the grassroots.
We also want to guard the resources of the state in the same manner.
“Yes, corruption kills the society. When money meant for projects,
salaries and certain developmental initiatives are diverted, we miss
the opportunities.”
The Governor, who spoke at the Executive Council Chambers of the
Governor’s Office said that the law has no political colourations as
according to him, corruption and underdevelopment have no political
leanings.
“This is not a law meant to witchhunt anyone. It is not about politics
or political interests. It is not about APC or PDP but about Oyo
State. We know for a fact that if we tackle corruption, we will have
enough resources to take care of our people and that is exactly what
this law is meant to achieve for us,” he said.
The Governor reiterated his readiness to waive his immunity and face
any corrupt charges against him, if he commits any infractions to the
law.
He added: “So, we believe we have to tackle corruption. I said it
during my inaugural address as the Executive Governor of Oyo State
that I will be ready to waive my immunity to face any corruption
charges against my person and I still maintain that position.”
The Governor, therefore, enjoined every citizen of the State to alert
the Government of any unscrupulous activities, adding; “if you see
something, say something.”
He also warned against writing frivolous petitions, adding that anyone
found guilty of such would equally be prosecuted.
