The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) is urging anti-corruption agencies to launch investigations into allegations of financial fraud and corruption within tertiary institutions across the country.
According to Comrade Oloyede Hassan Ayinde, the Deputy Coordinator of NAPS for the South-West Zone, the probe should encompass the highest levels of leadership, including the Minister for Education, and extend down to the governing councils and principal officers of the institutions. He emphasized the necessity for thorough scrutiny and accountability mechanisms.
In a statement titled “Transparency and Accountability: Urgent Call for Reform in Tertiary Institutions,” Ayinde highlighted a concerning incident at the Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, where two top officials allegedly purchased Toyota RAV4 2023 model vehicles worth N37 million each, amidst pressing issues within the institution.
Ayinde expressed dismay over the procurement of luxury vehicles while students continue to face challenges such as inadequate facilities, limited transportation during exams, and insufficient medical equipment in school clinics. He stressed that such expenditures are unjustifiable and underscore the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability.
Furthermore, Ayinde pointed out the dire situation extending beyond the campus, including irregular power supply and limited access to electricity in hostels, posing risks to student safety and hindering academic pursuits.
He called for immediate action from relevant authorities, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to investigate these allegations of financial mismanagement and corruption.
The statement emphasized the need to prioritize student welfare and allocate resources towards improving facilities and academic support services. Additionally, it highlighted the urgent requirement for reform and investment in essential services within educational institutions to prevent further abuses of power and resources.
The revelations at the Federal Polytechnic Ilaro underscore the imperative for transparency, accountability, and student welfare within tertiary institutions. NAPS stresses the importance of holding those responsible for financial mismanagement and negligence accountable to restore trust and integrity in Nigeria’s educational system.
