The Oyo State Anti‑Corruption Agency (OYACA) has affirmed that it has the legal mandate and operational independence to investigate any individual or institution in Oyo State, regardless of social status or political affiliation. The statement was made by its Chairman, Justice Eni Esan (Rtd.), who emphasized that “no one is above the law” in the state’s fight against corruption.
Speaking during a media interaction, the Chairman declared that once a petition is lodged, the agency will act—even if the subject is a high-ranking official or public institution. She noted that OYACA receives complaints both from individuals and through its own initiative, and was set up explicitly to handle allegations across government ministries, local governments, parastatals, private companies and individuals.
She further added that the agency is structurally independent; it does not await instructions from the governor or any political officeholder. In her words: “We investigate complaints against state MDAs, local governments, institutions owned by government, companies and individuals… nobody will tell us the type of people to investigate.”
The Chairman also highlighted that the legal foundation for OYACA grants it powers to inspect premises, access records and recommend prosecution or administrative action where appropriate. With increasing public trust being the goal, she urged citizens to come forward with credible petitions, stressing that anonymous complaints are accepted and the agency will ensure fairness and due process.
While boasting a track-record of investigations and recoveries, the agency remains under pressure to convert investigations into convictions and ensure that systemic corruption is curtailed at all levels of government.
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