OSOPADEC: Setting the Record Straight on EFCC Invitation – We Will Not Be Deterred in Advancing Ondo Mandate Areas, Says Poroye
The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has become aware of recent reports circulating in sections of the media saying that the Executive Chairman, Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, is under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over contracts and projects awarded by the Commission since 2018. These claims are misleading and misrepresent the facts.
To clarify, the EFCC’s correspondence is not directed at Prince Biyi Poroye in his personal capacity, but rather relates to his position as the current Chairman/CEO of OSOPADEC. The matter at hand involves an ongoing investigation tied to petitions and transactions dating back to 2018—long before Prince Poroye assumed office.
It is important to underscore that this inquiry was already active prior to his appointment, and necessary responses had been made by the appropriate quarters. Attempting to associate Prince Poroye with actions taken years before his tenure is not only inaccurate, but it is also a clear act of mischief aimed at creating unnecessary controversy.
Since taking office, Prince Poroye has hit the ground running, tackling the complex challenges within OSOPADEC head-on. He is committed to restructuring the agency for efficiency and accountability, guided by the recently amended OSOPADEC laws that provide a clear framework for impactful governance.
Unlike conventional government ministries, OSOPADEC is a special-purpose interventionist body tasked with delivering rapid and targeted development in oil-producing communities. Time-sensitive action is often required, and bureaucratic bottlenecks must be avoided for the sake of the people.
In under three months, Prince Poroye has taken notable steps to reposition the Commission. These include resuming long-abandoned projects worth billions of naira, following the directive of the State Governor to complete them regardless of initial contractors. He has also conducted stakeholder engagements, initiated alternative dispute resolutions to avoid expensive litigation, and strengthened partnerships with other development-focused agencies.
Additionally, OSOPADEC under his leadership has commenced the payment of bursaries and scholarships, disbursed support to the elderly and vulnerable, rolled out staff development programs, and introduced reforms aimed at improving staff welfare and boosting institutional capacity.
Despite attempts at distraction through misinformation and baseless allegations, Prince Poroye remains focused and undeterred. With the support of the State Governor and a strong vision for change, he continues to work tirelessly to fulfill the Commission’s mandate and deliver tangible benefits to the people of Ondo State.