The Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Biyi Poroye, has clarified that the ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is directed at the commission, not at him personally.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Akure, Poroye described as “misleading” reports suggesting that he was the subject of the anti-graft agency’s probe.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the invitation from the EFCC has nothing to do with the person of Prince Biyi Poroye but rather with his new office as Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of OSOPADEC,” the statement read.
According to him, the investigation concerns petitions dating back to 2018, years before his appointment, and the process had been ongoing prior to his assumption of office.
“It is mischievous and misleading to attempt to link the current Chairman to matters that predate his tenure,” he added.
Poroye explained that since taking office, he had faced multiple challenges requiring immediate attention to ensure OSOPADEC delivers on its mandate.
He noted that his leadership has prioritized completing abandoned projects, settling disputes through alternative means, improving staff welfare, and disbursing bursaries, scholarships, and grants to the aged and vulnerable.
The chairman stressed that the commission under his leadership is focused on restructuring and fast-tracking interventions, in line with the amended OSOPADEC laws, despite attempts to distract his administration.
“His spirit to perform remains high, his willpower is active, and his capacity to navigate distractions is visible,” the statement concluded.