ICAN Deepens Relationship with Oyo Anti-Graft Agency to Fight Corruption

The Lagelu District of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has announced a strategic partnership with the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) to strengthen anti-corruption efforts and promote transparency in governance and financial management across Oyo State.

This partnership aims to leverage ICAN’s expertise in forensic investigations and financial auditing to address corruption at both state and local government levels.

Key Areas of Collaboration

Capacity Building and Training:
- Joint workshops on ethical financial practices for accountants and public workers.
- Anti-corruption training for government officials.
Public Education Campaigns:
- Promoting financial transparency and accountability in institutions such as the Polytechnic Ibadan and Emmanuel Alayande College of Education.
Whistleblowing Initiatives:
- Establishing secure channels for reporting corrupt practices, managed by OYACA.
Joint Investigations:
- Utilizing ICAN’s forensic expertise to probe financial fraud and ensure accountability in government operations.

Leadership Comments

During a courtesy visit to OYACA, Chief Mrs. Omokemi Oladipo (FCA), the newly appointed pioneer chairman of ICAN’s Lagelu District, highlighted the importance of collaboration between professional organizations and anti-graft bodies in combating corruption.

Justice Eni Esan (rtd.), OYACA Chairperson, welcomed the partnership, commending ICAN’s efforts and acknowledging the contributions of Dr. Prince Oyebade Oyedepo (FCA), a member of OYACA’s governing board and a former ICAN council member, for his role in advancing the agency’s mission.

Implications

The collaboration is expected to enhance:

Good governance and accountability in Oyo State.
Effective fraud detection and prevention using advanced forensic tools.
Public trust in anti-corruption initiatives through transparency and accountability campaigns.

This partnership underscores a growing trend of professional bodies working with governmental agencies to tackle systemic corruption in Nigeria.