The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) has summoned top officials of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) over allegations that more than N400 million was moved from the agency’s account into personal bank accounts.
Those invited officials include the commission’s Chairman, Prince Biyi Poroye; Secretary, Dr. Abike Bayo-Ilawole; and two directors. The action followed a petition raising concerns about the transfers.
Addressing journalists after meeting with the bureau, Bayo-Ilawole dismissed claims of misappropriation, insisting that all funds were tied to duly approved projects.
“No fund is missing. The projects were executed, and we have records to show how the funds were expended. Some projects have been completed, while others are ongoing, with remaining funds still in the account,” she said.
She added that the projects received the approval of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and were implemented in accordance with laid-down procedures.
Also speaking, the Director of Project Planning and Development, Engineer Olukorede Adeshina-Oladapo, explained that transfers made to his account were related to “direct labour” projects, including renovations of schools, office improvements and construction works in riverine communities.
“The payments were made in instalments for project execution. Given the terrain and logistics involved in riverine communities, such arrangements were adopted to ensure smooth implementation,” he said, noting that he did not authorise the transfers.
Similarly, the Deputy Director of Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Engr. Dare Oretan, said funds paid into his account were meant for renovation projects in Ilaje and Ese-Odo local government areas under a state-approved direct labour framework. He stated that several of the projects had been completed, while others were close to completion.
Confirming the development, the state Deputy Superintendent of the CCB, Mrs. Aliu Akingbemila, said four officials were invited to respond to questions concerning the movement of funds.
“We invited them to clarify issues relating to the flow of funds into personal accounts. They have provided explanations, and we have requested relevant documents, including bank statements, to support their claims,” she said.
Akingbemila added that the bureau is reviewing the submitted documents as part of its ongoing investigation.
