The war against corruption is set receive a boost in Lagos State, with the appointment of a Chairman for the Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who signed the law setting up the Commission in April 2021, has now appointed retired Justice Mojisola Olatoregun as Chairman.
A statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, indicates that the appointment is pursuant to the power vested in Mr. Governor under Section 3(3) of the Lagos State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Law, 2021.
Justice Olatoregun retired as an administrative Judge of the Federal High Court, Lagos Division, after a tour of service in other divisions of the Federal High Court across the Federation.
Justice Olatoregun who is trained in international fraud and terrorism, cybercrime and electronic evidence, banking fraud, mediation and other courses is expected to bring her huge wealth of experience to bear on the job.
The Commission will be independent in its operations and functions while complementing the efforts of similar Agencies in the police and federal establishment.
The Anti-Corruption Commission Law is intended to deepen accountability and transparency in the expenditure of appropriated public funds. It is backed by the instrument of law to investigate and prosecute officials of the State Government and registered contractors indicted for economic crimes and financial misappropriation.
According to Governor Sanwo-Olu, the law will further boost confidence in the public to make complaints against public officials for investigation and prosecution.
Other functions of the commission include: investigating any allegations of non-performance of any Government contract; Formulating policies for appointments, promotion and discipline of its staff; investigation of all financial crimes and anti-corruption cases with regards to the State Government, ensuring transparency in the management of government resources, and confiscation of proceeds of corruption and financial crime-related offences or property.
The Commission will engage in public enlightenment campaigns against corruption and financial malpractices.
