FG to Probe 10 Institutions Over Mismanagement, Fraud, Others

Malam Adamu Adamu, the Minister of Education has set-up ad hoc committees in Abuja to investigate petitions on 10 tertiary institutions in response to allegations of abuse of due process, mismanagement, immorality, fraud and corruption, among other offences. Adamu said the ad hoc committees were inaugurated in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting due process, fairness, accountability and transparency in the control and management of public resources. He reiterated that allegations and counter-claims made against governing councils and managements of the institutions had created mistrust and hostility and hindered the smooth conduct of academic activities. The institutions include; University of Abuja, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, University of Calabar; Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State; Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State and Yaba College of Technology, Lagos State. Others are Federal University, Dutsin-Ma, Kastina State; Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State; University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom, and Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State. Adamu urged the panels to carefully study and investigate allegations in the petitions on the institutions or individuals. He went on to say that the panels were required to “seek to determine the veracity of claims and counter-claims by considering the circumstances and talking to as many witnesses as possible. “To meet and interview the writers of the petitions and establish the basis of their claims. “To ensure fair hearing by meeting with, and listening to explanations from all those against whom petitions have been written.”