The Osun state government and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), on Monday, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on project monitoring and evaluation.

Governor Ademola Adeleke and the chairman of the ICPC, Musa Aliyu, signed the MoU at the Government House in Osogbo.

The governor said the partnership would further deepen good governance, especially in terms of anti-corruption protocols.

According to him, the anti-corruption agencies have delicate assignments that demand the support and cooperation of those that hold top government offices.

“Our government today is demonstrating a 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 expand the anti-corruption infrastructure within Osun State.”

Mr Adeleke said that his administration was implementing a multi-billion-naira infrastructure agenda in the state with zero tolerance for corruption.

“The projects are ongoing and in line with the approved schedule, supervised by tested professionals in the field.

“We rolled out several initiatives, which included the creation of special project accounts, the blockage of leakages in the revenue collection system, an increase in internally generated revenue, a reduction of overhead costs, and deliberate saving from the government’s earnings.’’

Mr Adeleke said that his sole ambition as governor was to render selfless public service.

“We are giving back to the people by ensuring the judicious application of public funds and resources.

“During the inauguration of my cabinet, I openly warned those with a corrupt mindset to opt out before it was too late.

“We applied rigorous vetting in the financial approval process and ensured enforcement of the procurement laws without fear or favour,” he said.

Earlier, the ICPC chairman said that the MoU embodied a collective resolve to combat corruption and foster a culture of integrity and accountability in the state.

Mr Aliyu said the fight against corruption could not be won by an individual or agency, adding that it required the concerted efforts of all stakeholders in the three tiers of government.

According to him, the 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.

“Today’s signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with the Osun State Government is a historic step forward.

“Leveraging the directives of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), our constitution (as amended), and the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, we commit to a robust partnership.

“This partnership is focused on anti-corruption initiatives, public education, and activities designed to enhance integrity and accountability within the state.

“Let us remember that our success in combating corruption is not merely for the present generation but also for the future of our beloved nation,” he said.

Mr Aliyu said the partnership would create a society where integrity, transparency, and accountability would be the norm.

He expressed confidence that the goal would be achieved with the commitment and cooperation of all parties involved.

(NAN)