The newly inaugurated Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Biyi Poroye, has clarified that the recent invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is not directed at him personally but at the commission he now heads.
Barely a week after assuming office, Poroye explained that the EFCC inquiry predates his administration, tracing back to 2018—long before his swearing-in. According to him, the matter had been previously addressed by the commission, and his leadership has no direct link to it.
Citing the Bible, Poroye remarked that “neither the sons have committed any crimes,” stressing that his emergence as chairman does not implicate him in issues preceding his tenure.
Despite early distractions, Poroye said he remains focused on restructuring OSOPADEC to deliver on its mandate. Unlike conventional ministries, the commission was designed as a rapid-response agency to address the needs of oil-producing communities—an objective he insists must be achieved.
Since resumption, Poroye and his team have prioritized:
- Completing abandoned multi-billion-naira projects in line with Governor Aiyedatiwa’s directive, regardless of ownership disputes.
- Undertaking familiarization tours and engaging key stakeholders.
- Resolving litigations through alternative dispute resolution, saving the commission millions.
- Partnering with other interventionist agencies to attract funding and support.
- Paying bursaries, scholarships, and grants to aged and vulnerable citizens.
- Embarking on staff training and capacity building, neglected for years.
- Improving staff welfare and workplace environment.
- Injecting creative ideas to reposition the system for efficiency.
Poroye emphasized that no amount of blackmail, misinformation, or administrative bottlenecks will derail his determination to reposition OSOPADEC.
“The spirit to perform is high, the will force is active, and our capacity to navigate manipulations is visible. With the strength and leadership encouragement of Mr Governor, we will deliver,” he affirmed.
