The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has accused Governor Seyi Makinde of attempting to shield his administration from scrutiny by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), insisting that no court order can permanently stop investigations into the state’s financial transactions.
The opposition party was reacting to Wednesday’s ruling of a Federal High Court in Ibadan, which granted an application by the Oyo State Government restraining the EFCC from obtaining financial records relating to contracts awarded by the Makinde administration from 2021 to date.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC described the governor’s move as “appalling and shameful,” alleging that it was aimed at frustrating the anti-graft agency from carrying out its constitutional responsibility.
According to the party, accountability remains a fundamental principle of public service, and no elected official should be afraid of scrutiny.
“Apparently, Governor Makinde believes the mandate given to him to govern Oyo State gives him the right to treat the state as his personal estate without being held accountable. His latest attempt to stop the EFCC from carrying out its statutory duty leaves much to be desired,” the statement said.
The APC questioned why the governor would seek to prevent the anti-graft agency from accessing records of government contracts if there was nothing to hide.
“The question many patriots are asking is: Why is Governor Makinde afraid to account for resources entrusted to him for the benefit of the people? What exactly is he trying to conceal? He can only run, but he cannot hide. The EFCC and other anti-corruption agencies will eventually do their work, and the truth will come to light,” the party declared.
The opposition further alleged that several projects executed under the Makinde administration, including the exercise book printing project, Lekan Salami Stadium rehabilitation, Circular Road project, Agodi Government House renovation, bus terminal construction, Alakia Airport upgrade, alleged sale of government properties and unremitted workers’ salary deductions, deserve thorough investigation.
According to the APC, those behind any financial misconduct should be held accountable, regardless of their status.
“Very soon, Governor Makinde will account for every kobo of Oyo State’s resources received during the last seven years,” the statement added.
The party maintained that while the court ruling may temporarily restrain the EFCC, it would not prevent anti-corruption agencies from carrying out their constitutional mandate when the time comes.
