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Democracy In Nigeria: A Work In Progress

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By Ajalekoko Moses

In Nigeria’s land, where democracy’s stood tall, For 26 years, we’ve struggled to have it all. We’ve voted in leaders, with promises so bright,
But our lives remain dim, in the dark of night. We’re docile, complacent and culpable in our woe, Not taking responsibility, as the system goes slow. We’re corrupt, in our ways, always waiting to cheat, Our votes are for sale, our leaders, a repeat.

The leaders we elect, are they not our product, a reflection of our might? We blame them for our misery, but they’re our choice, our sight.
They’re the leaders we’ve elected, with our votes so free, but they don’t deliver, and we’re left to plea. The economy’s struggle, it grows, but slowly, while our hopes decline, Unemployment’s high, and our future’s not so fine. The cost of living’s risen, with prices so steep. We’re struggling to survive, in this economic creep.

But the billionaires in public office, buy jets and build castles, with our money so fine, while public institutions crumble, and infrastructure declines. Their wealth grows, as ours dwindles away and debt profile increase, A stark contrast, in this democratic play. Our hospitals lack equipment, schools lack books, Roads are potholed, and electricity’s a crook. Our public institutions, in decay and disrepair, A reflection of our leaders’ lack of care.

Doctors and professionals, are leaving our shore, seeking greener pastures, where their skills are adored. They’re japa-ing abroad, in search of a better life, Leaving us with shortages, and a struggling strife. But there are tales of triumph, amidst the gloom, of individuals who’ve succeeded, despite the economic doom. Their stories of resilience, of adaptability and might, inspire us to strive, for a brighter light.

Let’s take responsibility, for our nation’s fate, Let’s work together, to create a better state. Let’s elect leaders, who’ll serve with integrity,
And demand good governance, with accountability.

But one thing’s clear, we must take a stand, for a better Nigeria, where all can thrive in the land. Let’s strive for greatness, with ingenuity and might, and make our democracy, a beacon of light.

We, the people, hold the power, to shape our destiny, to demand good governance, and accountability. Let’s use our voices, to speak out against injustice, and work towards a future, where all can live with dignity.

A Nation’s hope, is that our leaders, will put people first, Will serve with integrity, and do what’s best. For 26 years, we’ve struggled, but we won’t give up, we’ll keep striving, for a better tomorrow to come up. The cost of living has risen so high, it’s hard to make ends meet, but still we hope, for a better life to greet. The future’s uncertain, but we’ll face it with cheer, and work towards a Nigeria, where all can live in fear.

A better tomorrow is possible, if we work together, hand in hand, if our leaders serve, with integrity, and a plan. Let’s build a nation, where all can thrive, where democracy’s dividends, are shared and alive.

The next few years, will be crucial, let’s see, if our leaders will deliver, and make a difference to be. The people expect a lot from them, it’s true, let’s hope they rise to the challenge, and see us through.

Let’s not just complain, let’s take action too, let’s work towards a better Nigeria, for me and you. Let’s strive for greatness, with all our light,
And make our democracy, a shining light.

We’ve got a long way to go, but we won’t give up, we’ll keep striving, for a better Nigeria to come up. With hope and determination, we’ll face the future bright, and make our democracy, a beacon of light.

Newsflo.ng

26 Years Of Uninterrupted Democracy: A Test Of Leadership

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OPINION
Newsflo.ng

By Ajalekoko Moses

In Nigeria’s land, where democracies stood tall, for 26 years, uninterrupted, we’ve heard it all. from promises made, to actions not taken, the people suffer, while leaders are festered. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a leader of great might, spoke of reform, of change, of a brighter light. He promised true federalism, devolution of power, free and credible elections, each and every hour.

But now he’s in the driver’s seat, the people expect, a lot of reform, a lot of change, no neglect. They want to see action, not just words so fine, a government that serves, not just a select few’s shrine. Of the struggles we’ve faced, of the challenges we’ve known, of the leaders who’ve promised, but not delivered to the throne. Tinubu’s got a chance, to make a difference true, to walk his talk, a “commonsense revolution” with actions that renew.

As prices rise, insecurity, and jobs are scarce, the people cry, their future uncertain, their present a sigh. The president’s policies, a test of his will, to ease the suffering, to make the economy fulfill. The opposition’s voice, a critical sound, must push for reform, for a better way around. Electoral reform, a must, to ensure free and fair election, a judiciary independent, to dispense justice with care.

The courts, a pillar, of justice and right, must stand tall, and uphold the law’s light. No more misconstruing, no more enabling might, Justice must be served, day and night. A leader’s greatness, is not measured by wealth, or power so grand, but by the positive impact, on the people’s land. Tinubu’s legacy, will be defined by his deeds, will he walk his talk, or just plant seeds?

The people’s hope, is that their leaders, will put people first, will serve with integrity, and do what’s best. For 26 years, we’ve had democracy’s rule, Let’s hope that this time, our leaders will be cool.

Let’s work together, for a brighter day, where leaders serve, and people have their say. No more elite, crude politics, no more neglect,
Let’s build a nation, where all can inspect. But one thing’s clear, the people will decide, if Tinubu’s leadership, will be one to abide.
Let’s hope he takes action, to ease the people’s pain, and builds a nation, where all can gain.

A leader’s test is not just winning elections, but serving with might, is putting people first, and doing what’s right. Tinubu’s test, is just beginning, let’s see, if he’ll pass with flying colors, or fail miserably. The people’s voice, must be heard, must be loud and clear, for a better Nigeria, where all can appear. Let’s hold our leaders, accountable each day, and demand good governance, in every way.

A brighter future possible, if we work together, hand in hand, if our leaders serve, with integrity, vision, and a plan. Let’s build a nation, where all can thrive, where democracy’s dividends, are shared and alive.

The next few years, will be crucial, let’s see, if Tinubu’s leadership, will bring prosperity. The people expect a lot from him, it’s true,
Let’s hope he delivers and makes a difference anew.

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When The People’s Voice Is Silenced

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By Ajalekoko Moses

In the hallowed halls of Abuja’s might, A gathering of representatives, red and green, devoid of light. Their hearts, a vessel, empty and bare, Their minds, a maze, with self-interest they share.

They claim to have paid the price, through nose and blood, To reach the pinnacle, where power is a flood. But now, they must recoup, their investment so grand, The people’s welfare, a distant, fading land. Their democracy, a farce, a game of might, Where the people’s voices, are silenced in the night. No more empowerment, no more helping hand, Just a ruling class, with an iron, unforgiving stand.

The motor cycles, tri-cycles, and vehicles of old, Are now but memories, of a bygone era, grown cold. The people, treated like slaves, and fools, so blind, Their lives, a mere endurance, with no peace of mind. But can we blame them, for this sorry state? Is it not our democracy, that has created this fate? A system, where money talks, and power is the goal, Leaving the people’s welfare, to wither, and lose its soul.

So let us weep, for the Nigeria we once knew, Where representatives, truly represented, the people’s view. But now, we’re left, with this hollow, empty shell, A democracy, that’s lost its way, and its people’s bell.

Newsflo.ng

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Walking The Talk

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It’s fitting to congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as his administration approaches its second year in office in May, given the notable achievements made so far. His courageous decision to dismantle the corrupt subsidy regime that nearly crippled Nigeria’s economy is indeed commendable. This bold move has yielded significant savings, approximately ₦4 trillion annually, which are now being channeled into critical infrastructure and social programs.

The removal of the fuel subsidy has been a landmark policy, aimed at reducing the financial burden on the government and redirecting funds to more productive sectors. Although this move has caused initial hardships, it’s a necessary step towards Nigeria’s economic growth.

President Tinubu’s administration has also made strides in other areas, including economic reforms, infrastructure development, agriculture, social welfare, education, and health. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to driving sustainable development and improving the lives of Nigerians.

His economic policies also deserve praise. The unification of the exchange rate, growth in foreign reserves, and boost in foreign direct investment are all testaments to the administration’s efforts to revamp the economy. The removal of import duties on essential food items and the implementation of the student loan scheme are also notable achievements that cannot be ignored.

However, despite these successes, Nigerians are still grappling with the harsh realities of poverty, hunger, and insecurity. The rising cost of living, exacerbated by the removal of the fuel subsidy, has made life unbearable for many. Health facilities are out of reach for poor Nigerians, and the middle class has all but disappeared.

Insecurity remains a significant challenge, with poor farmers unable to access their farms while the wealthy move about with armed security agencies. The crisis in Rivers State is a stark reminder of the need for urgent attention to all these issues, most importantly, the political process.

The government’s call for patriotism most times rings hollow when they themselves fail to demonstrate this value. Patriotism isn’t just about singing the national anthem or celebrating Independence Day, rhetoric, it’s about doing what’s right, even when it’s difficult. It’s about upholding the principles of justice, equality, and fairness at all times.

When the government prioritizes the interests of a select few over the well-being of the majority, it undermines the very fabric of patriotism. How can citizens be expected to be patriotic when their leaders are not accountable to them? When the electoral process is marred by rigging, imposition, and intimidation, it’s a mockery of democracy.

True patriotism begins with allowing citizens to choose their leaders and representatives without fear or coercion. It means respecting the will of the people, even if it doesn’t align with the interests of those in power. Nigeria’s internal democracy and electoral process must be reformed to reflect the true spirit of patriotism.

As research has shown, Nigeria’s democratic process has been characterized by banditry, rigging, violence and other vices. However, if the government can get it right, if they can ensure free and fair elections, and if they can uphold the principles of democracy, then Nigeria can truly become a beacon of hope for Africa.

As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of democracy, it’s imperative that President Tinubu embodies the principles he claims to uphold. With the country’s democracy still in its nascent stages, it’s disheartening to see the imposition of candidates and disregard for democratic ethos, as witnessed in Rivers State, threatening the political foundation of this Fourth Republic, the longest in the country’s history.

The past decade has seen the rise of the acclaimed progressive party, but the promise of true democracy remains unfulfilled. The desperation of leaders to install their successors has led to a betrayal of the Nigerian Constitution, undermining the very fabric of democracy. It’s time for Nigeria to transcend this stage of imposition and embrace the true spirit of democracy.

The key to a thriving democracy lies in party politics, the delegate process, and effective party management. President Tinubu must prioritize these aspects to ensure that the people’s voices are heard. The leadership selection process needs to be revamped, and alternative ideas must be presented to reflect the true will of the people.

As the country approaches the 2027 elections, it’s crucial that the people are allowed to choose their representatives in the upcoming congress and primary elections. The voices of Nigerians must count, and their choices must be respected. President Tinubu has a unique opportunity to leave an indelible mark on Nigeria’s democracy by ensuring that the people’s voices are heard loud and clear.

By walking the democratic talk, President Tinubu can bestow a lasting legacy on humanity. He has nothing to lose but everything to gain by making Nigeria’s democracy work. The world is watching, and history will remember his actions. Will he rise to the challenge and cement his places as champions of democracy, or will he succumb to the pressures of power and undermine the very foundations of Nigeria’s democracy? The choice is his, and the fate of Nigeria’s democracy hangs in the balance.

So, as President Tinubu is about to mark his second year in office, he should reflect on the true meaning of patriotism. It’s not just about grand gestures or empty rhetoric; it’s about doing what’s right, even when it’s hard. It’s about putting the interests of the people above other interests. If he can do this, then his legacy will truly endure, and Nigeria will be forever grateful.

As he continues in office, he should prioritize the welfare of Nigerians. Our democracy is still a work in progress, and our political system needs reform. The voices of Nigerians must be heard, and their participation in the democratic process must be meaningful.

Newsflo.ng 🇳🇬
By Editorial Board

Corruption’s Citadel: The Rot In Nigeria’s Civil Service

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By Ajalekoko Moses

In Nigeria’s halls of power, a monster resides, The civil service, stagnant, corrupt, and divides. A legacy of colonial rule, designed to control,
Not to develop, but to stifle the soul. Behind the scenes, they manipulate and play, Ghost workers, budget padding, every single day. Their interests served, while the nation suffers, A bureaucratic beast, feeding on corruption’s buffers.

Politicians come and go, but they remain, The real power brokers, with a stranglehold on the game. Reform attempts are met with resistance strong, their jobs, lifelong entitlements, not positions of service long.

The system’s bloated, inefficient, and corrupt too, Full of individuals contributing little, but collecting salaries anew. Their greed and selfishness, a burden to bear, A weight that’s crushing Nigeria, with no one to care. It’s time to speak out, to demand a change,
To reform the civil service and rearrange. Let’s build a system that rewards competence and skill, not one that protects corruption, and stifles progress still.

The future of Nigeria depends on it, we can’t delay, let’s tackle corruption’s citadel, and bring a brighter day.

Newsflo.ng

SPFACC: The Path To Good Governance In Ondo

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The Ondo State government has been commended for the establishment of the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC), signaling the government’s willingness to tackle corruption and promote good governance . However, critics argue that the commission’s effectiveness is questionable, with some labeling it a “smoke screen” to protect vested interests.
Oyewumi Adeniyi, Adeola Ogunrinde and
Adeyemo Lucy examine the implications of the creation of this anti-graft agency.

During it’s inaugural interaction with the Anti-corruption CSOs and members of the press at it’s Alagbaka Quarter’s office, the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC) Chairman RTD Justice W.O Akintoroye spoke aloud about the Commission’s willingness to harness available human and intellectual resources to checkmate corrupt practices and promote good governance in Ondo State in accordance with global practices. The Chairman said the Commission is fully committed to unblemished integrity and impartiality in it’s operation.

The Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes and Anti-Corruption Commission SPFACC was established in 2022 by Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, to checkmate sharp practices, enhance financial sanity, resolve disputes, promote probity and accountability in the conduct of government activities. The commission is empowered by the Ondo State Public Complaints Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Commission Law 2022.

Since it’s establishment, SPFACC has received about 48 petitions, ranging from public disputes, corrupt practices and finical breach activities. The commission is also said to be investigating some high profile cases involving former and present state officials. Living up to it’s inaugural boast , SPFACC have lined and carried out a few of it’s path-finding programs aimed at sanitizing the system in preparation for it’s bigger landings. One of these programs include, a One-Day colloqium involving CSOs , officials of Ministries and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. The other was the training for Local Government personnel done in collaboration with the Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Meanwhile, the public is skeptical about the sincerity or otherwise of the state newborn anti-corruption agency. Tongues are also wagging as to the real motive behind the setting up of SPFACC. A Professor of Law at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, who wished to remain anonymous, commended the government’s decision and courage to establish an anti-corruption commission in Ondo State. He said, if properly managed, Ondo State may turn out to be the cynosure and symbol of accountability and good governance in Nigeria. However, the professor doubt the motive of the then Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu in setting up the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC). He was of the opinion that SPFACC was hastily set up by the previous administration allegedly to shield state officials from EFCC and ICPC investigations.

In his view, Dr. Tayo Aloba, Director of Information and Strategy for Network of CSOs Against Corruption said “The government has not shown seriousness in combating corruption, even at the federal level,” He asked if there were any significant mechanism in place to tackle corruption, given that many top government functionaries were embroiled in corruption cases both at the federal and state levels. “For Nigerians to take the government serious, the authority should learn from China and other developed countries on how they fight corruption,” he submitted.

The commission’s office, located at Alagbaka, has been described as underwhelming and eyesore, with the chairman’s office likened to a “village headmaster’s office.” This is particularly concerning given the chairman’s esteemed background as a retired chief justice, Justice W. O Akintoroye.

When asked to be specific about the situation in Ondo State, Aloba lauds Governor Ayedatiwa for reviving the state Anti-corruption agency but warns that the Commission may die a forced death if it’s present situation is not urgently addressed. According to Aloba ” a working and effective SFPACC will restore public confidence in governance. It will eliminate public suspicion about government financial activities and enhance transparency in governance.”

In another vein, the Director of Public Petitions , Coalition for Transparency, CT , Henry Adeolu said Ondo State still have a long way to go as far as the fight against corruption and financial crimes is concerned. He said ” as long as the state government can not adequately fund the commission, the idea of fighting corruption will remain a child play”.

A source in the commission, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that SPFACC is working within its resource capacity to improve its efforts in combating corruption and other crimes in the state. “‘The commission has received numerous petitions from the public. One of the petitions currently being addressed is from OSOPADEC, filed against some past officials of the agency for mismanagement and misappropriation of funds meant for the development of the mandate area.

SPFACC have extended numerous invitations to some of the affected individuals. The Managing Director of Coastville Global Resources( name withheld) a company floated in 2018 with OSOPADEC fund but with individuals cornering as much as 80% equity, as shareholders, submitted himself to be be drilled by SPFACC investigators.

Our source said he gave useful information . Also, a retired head of the legal department and the immediate Executive Secretary of OSOPADEC honored the commission’s invitation, they were also drilled for days.” However, two former Chairmen of the agency were said to have shunned SPFACC invitations , with claims that the matter is already before the court.

The signature forgery of the former and late Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu was another crack case waiting to be unravel by SPFACC investigators. The Coalition for Transparency, CT, was said to have dragged five former state officials to the Commission sometimes March 2024. The officials were allegedly fingered in the forgery of the deceased signature. Our source confirmed that former SSG, Princess Oladuni Odu, and Finance Commissioner, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa have reportedly appeared before the Commission’s fact-combers for questioning.

Asides investigation, our source hints that about two states have sent representatives to understudy the law establishing SPFACC. The commission is also hosting the first ever states anti corruption commissions’ conference in April this year in Akure. “In my opinion, the commission is making genuine efforts but needs more support to achieve desirable outcomes.” The source concluded.

Newsflo.ng took up the views of some notable individuals and NGOs with concerned authorities for a proper perspective. The questions included inquiries about the government’s preparedness to combat corruption, measures adopted to involve the people of the state in this effort and actions to be taken if affected officials under investigations are found culpable of allegations such as forgery and misappropriation of funds.

Newsflo.ng got Professor Adewole Adeyeye, Secretary to SPFACC on phone for the Commission’s perspective on concerns of the public and other sundry matters.

However, Professor Adeyeye expressed his displeasure over claims that the Commission was hurriedly set up to protect public officials from EFCC. ” take a look at the personnel on the board of SPFACC, do we look like people who can be used for dirty jobs? The late Governor Akeredolu meant well for this state by setting up this Commission”.

Prof. Adeyeye said further that the board members are men and women of integrity who have served society well in different fields of endeavor with success stories. The Professor also debunked insinuations that the Ondo State government is doing nothing to support the Commission.

“It is not true that the present government has abandoned this Commission,’ he said. ‘To start with, the Commission is two years old, and as usual, we are growing. As a matter of fact, efforts are already being made by the state government to tackle our challenges here.

“First, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has approved the immediate employment of a crack investigative team and other staff for the Commission. We are also receiving increased support through increased budgetary allocation. We have been provided with at least two operational vehicles. This is in addition to the government’s plan to provide us with a befitting office anytime soon. I can tell you with all sense of responsibility that the government of Governor Aiyedatiwa is serious about ensuring accountability and transparency in governance in this state” he concluded.

One thing that the State government needs to address is the incessant harassment of SPFACC by federal agencies like the EFCC, ICPC, and the PCC. This harassment is condemnable.

As the Ondo State government navigates its anti-corruption efforts, questions remain about the commission’s effectiveness and the government political willing to tackling the monster called corruption.

With ongoing investigations into past government officials, including allegations of forgery, falsification of age and misappropriation of funds, the public awaits concrete actions from the government.

Newsflo.ng

Ondo State’s Anti-Corruption Commission: A Step In The Right Direction Or A Public Relations Stunt?

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EXCLUSIVE REPORT
Newsflo.ng

By Oyewumi Adeniyi
Adeola Ogunrinde
Adeyemo Lucy

The Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC) has been commended for its establishment, signaling the government’s willingness to tackle corruption. However, critics argue that the commission’s effectiveness is questionable, with some labeling it a “smoke screen” to protect vested interests.

During it’s inaugural interaction with the Anti-corruption CSOs and members of the press at it’s Alagbaka Quarter’s office, the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC) Chairman RTD Justice W.O Akintoroye spoke aloud about the Commission’s willingness to harness available human and intellectual resources to checkmate corrupt practices and promote good governance in Ondo State in accordance with global practices. The Chairman said the Commission is fully committed to unblemished integrity and impartiality in it’s operation.

The Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes and Anti-Corruption Commission SPFACC was established in 2022 by Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, to checkmate sharp practices, enhance financial sanity, resolve disputes, promote probity and accountability in the conduct of government activities. The commission is empowered by the Ondo State Public Complaints Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Commission Law 2022.

Since it’s establishment, SPFACC has received about 48 petitions, ranging from public disputes, corrupt practices and finical breach activities. The commission is also said to be investigating some high profile cases involving former and present state officials. Living up to it’s inaugural boast , SPFACC have lined and carried out a few of it’s path-finding programs aimed at sanitizing the system in preparation for it’s bigger landings. One of these programs include, a One-Day colloqium involving CSOs , officials of Ministries and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. The other was the training for Local Government personnel done in collaboration with the Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Meanwhile, the public is skeptical about the sincerity or otherwise of the state newborn anti-corruption agency. Tongues are also wagging as to the real motive behind the setting up of SPFACC. A Professor of Law at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, who wished to remain anonymous, commended the government’s decision and courage to establish an anti-corruption commission in Ondo State. He said, if properly managed, Ondo State may turn out to be the cynosure and symbol of accountability and good governance in Nigeria. However, the professor doubt the motive of the then Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu in setting up the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC). He was of the opinion that SPFACC was hastily set up by the previous administration allegedly to shield state officials from EFCC and ICPC investigations.

In his view, Dr. Tayo Aloba, Director of Information and Strategy for Network of CSOs Against Corruption said “The government has not shown seriousness in combating corruption, even at the federal level,” He asked if there were any significant mechanism in place to tackle corruption, given that many top government functionaries were embroiled in corruption cases both at the federal and state levels. “For Nigerians to take the government serious, the authority should learn from China and other developed countries on how they fight corruption,” he submitted.

The commission’s office, located at Alagbaka, has been described as underwhelming and eyesore, with the chairman’s office likened to a “village headmaster’s office.” This is particularly concerning given the chairman’s esteemed background as a retired chief justice, Justice W. O Akintoroye.

When asked to be specific about the situation in Ondo State, Aloba lauds Governor Ayedatiwa for reviving the state Anti-corruption agency but warns that the Commission may die a forced death if it’s present situation is not urgently addressed. According to Aloba ” a working and effective SFPACC will restore public confidence in governance. It will eliminate public suspicion about government financial activities and enhance transparency in governance.”

In another vein, the Director of Public Petitions , Coalition for Transparency, CT , Henry Adeolu said Ondo State still have a long way to go as far as the fight against corruption and financial crimes is concerned. He said ” as long as the state government can not adequately fund the commission, the idea of fighting corruption will remain a child play”.

A source in the commission, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that SPFACC is working within its resource capacity to improve its efforts in combating corruption and other crimes in the state. “‘The commission has received numerous petitions from the public. One of the petitions currently being addressed is from OSOPADEC, filed against some past officials of the agency for mismanagement and misappropriation of funds meant for the development of the mandate area.

SPFACC have extended numerous invitations to some of the affected individuals. The Managing Director of Coastville Global Resources( name withheld) a company floated in 2018 with OSOPADEC fund but with individuals cornering as much as 80% equity, as shareholders, submitted himself to be be drilled by SPFACC investigators.

Our source said he gave useful information . Also, a retired head of the legal department and the immediate Executive Secretary of OSOPADEC honored the commission’s invitation, they were also drilled for days.” However, two former Chairmen of the agency were said to have shunned SPFACC invitations , with claims that the matter is already before the court.

The signature forgery of the former and late Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu was another crack case waiting to be unravel by SPFACC investigators. The Coalition for Transparency, CT, was said to have dragged five former state officials to the Commission sometimes March 2024. The officials were allegedly fingered in the forgery of the deceased signature. Our source confirmed that former SSG, Princess Oladuni Odu, and Finance Commissioner, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa have reportedly appeared before the Commission’s fact-combers for questioning.

Asides investigation, our source hints that about two states have sent representatives to understudy the law establishing SPFACC. The commission is also hosting the first ever states anti corruption commissions’ conference in April this year in Akure. “In my opinion, the commission is making genuine efforts but needs more support to achieve desirable outcomes.” The source concluded.

Newsflo.ng took up the views of some notable individuals and NGOs with concerned authorities for a proper perspective. The questions included inquiries about the government’s preparedness to combat corruption, measures adopted to involve the people of the state in this effort and actions to be taken if affected officials under investigations are found culpable of allegations such as forgery and misappropriation of funds.

Newsflo.ng got Professor Adewole Adeyeye, Secretary to SPFACC on phone for the Commission’s perspective on concerns of the public and other sundry matters. However, Professor Adeyeye expressed his displeasure over claims that the Commission was hurriedly set up to protect public officials from EFCC. ” take a look at the personnel on the board of SPFACC, do we look like people who can be used for dirty jobs? The late Governor Akeredolu meant well for this state by setting up this Commission”.

Prof. Adeyeye said further that the board members are men and women of integrity who have served society well in different fields of endeavor with success stories. Prof. Adeyeye also debunked insinuations that the Ondo State government is doing nothing to support the Commission.

“It is not true that the present government has abandoned this Commission,’ he said. ‘To start with, the Commission is two years old, and as usual, we are growing. As a matter of fact, efforts are already being made by the state government to tackle our challenges here.”

“First, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has approved the immediate employment of a crack investigative team and other staff for the Commission. We are also receiving increased support through increased budgetary allocation. We have been provided with at least two operational vehicles. This is in addition to the government’s plan to provide us with a befitting office anytime soon. I can tell you with all sense of responsibility that the government of Governor Aiyedatiwa is serious about project execution. One thing that the State government needs to address is the harassment of SPFACC by federal agencies like the EFCC, ICPC, and the PCC. This harassment is condemnable.”

As the Ondo State government navigates its anti-corruption efforts, questions remain about the commission’s effectiveness and the government’s willingness to tackle corruption. With ongoing investigations into past government officials, including allegations of forgery and misappropriation of funds, the public awaits concrete actions from the government.

Newsflo.ng

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