The Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) has asked for the support of traditional rulers within the state to help in the war against corruption, in order for the state to win its ongoing anti-graft war.
The Chairman of the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA), Justice Eni Esan (rtd.) made the call on Tuesday, during a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun at his residence, noting that
local communities will enjoy more dividends of democracy if traditional institutions play active roles in the fight against corruption.
Justice Esan insisted that for the fight against corruption in the state to be effective, traditional institutions must be involved, considering their influence in the society, noting that the Governor Seyi Makinde led-administration in line with its pledge to rid the state of corruption is determined to win the war, hence the establishment of OYACA in 2020.
“We need to involve traditional institutions because you have a strong influence over the people within their domain. We are certain you receive complaints from members of the public, so we earnestly appeal to you to refer any complaints on corruption to OYACA. The Olubadan-in-council under your leadership could partner with us to rid Oyo state of corruption,” she said.
In his reaction, Oba Lekan Balogun noted that everybody has a role to play in the war against corruption, adding that the visit was necessary in a bid to eliminate graft in the state.
The traditional ruler, therefore, pledged his support to the anti-graft agency’s activities in Ibadanland. He further commended the agency for being the vanguard of Nigerians against the sharp practices and urged them not to relent in their efforts.
“You are making an impact already in Oyo State, as Nigerians are getting more conscious of your job. Your agency is keeping our future alive”, he said.
