The Equal Justice Initiative Nigeria (EJIN) has issued a formal petition to the National Universities Commission (NUC) calling for immediate intervention regarding Tansian University, which is currently engulfed in a scandal involving grave allegations of mismanagement, fraud, and corruption.
The petition, spearheaded by Dr. Lawal Mohammed, the National President of EJI, underscores the urgent need for intervention to protect the integrity of the institution and secure the future of its students.
Allegations and Petition Details
The petition submitted to the NUC outlines severe accusations against key figures within Tansian University, including Barr. Edwin Obiora, Innocent Ukeh, and Daniel Igwilo. These allegations paint a disturbing picture of widespread corruption and mismanagement within the institution. The primary accusations include:
Forgery and Mismanagement: The petition asserts that university management has engaged in extensive forgery, including falsifying academic transcripts and degrees. Claims also include illegal activities such as degree certificate racketeering and the fraudulent issuance of bounced cheques.
Subversion of Justice: There are accusations of the university disregarding court rulings and consent judgments. This includes the failure to resolve ownership disputes and the arbitrary dissolution of the Board of Trustees and Governing Council.
Unapproved Programs: The university is alleged to have introduced academic programs such as faculties of Law and Nursing without the necessary approvals from the NUC, leading to the collection of substantial fees from unsuspecting students.
Improper Admissions Practices: Allegations suggest that admissions processes have been compromised through bribery, with reports indicating that parents could allegedly purchase admissions or certificates dishonestly.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
The petition details a history of internal conflict at Tansian University, tracing back to changes made by the late Msgr. Prof. John Bosco Akam, one of the university’s founders. His significant alterations to the board of trustees and governance structure, made without adequate consultation, have led to ongoing disputes.
After Msgr. Akam’s death, the situation reportedly worsened, with individuals such as Rev. Obiorah Edwin and Mr. Innocent Ukeh allegedly engaging in fraudulent schemes and ignoring legal agreements. A notable dispute involved the university’s failure to pay rent to Ranent Industries Ltd, resulting in court orders demanding the university vacate the premises and settle outstanding debts. This dispute was initially settled in 2009, but recent reports suggest that the university’s non-compliance has reignited legal and financial issues.
Furthermore, allegations have emerged that certain individuals exploited the university’s finances and administrative processes. Reports indicate that these individuals are suspected of extorting over 100 million naira from Msgr. Akam under the pretense of securing “foreign funds” and various financial aids. The strain from these financial deceptions reportedly contributed to Msgr. Akam’s death on February 4, 2021.
Additionally, an investigation has uncovered evidence of fraudulent activities involving the illegal alteration of the university’s registration. It appears that Msgr. Akam’s signature was forged to register a new entity, “Missionary Sons of Blessed Iwene Tansi Congregation,” with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). This registration is believed to have been used to unlawfully seize control of Tansian University from its rightful proprietors.
Calls for Urgent Intervention
In light of these serious allegations, the Equal Justice Initiative Nigeria has made the following urgent calls to the NUC:
Restoring Integrity: EJI urges the NUC to enforce compliance with legal judgments, address governance issues, and restore integrity to the university’s operations.
Addressing Corruption: There is a call for the prosecution of individuals involved in fraudulent activities and the implementation of measures to prevent further mismanagement.
Restoring Trust: Emphasis is placed on the need to return the university to its original proprietors and address the fraudulent practices that have tarnished its reputation.
The petitioners stress that the resolution of these issues is critical for safeguarding the university’s integrity and ensuring the future of its students. As the NUC reviews these claims, the outcome will be crucial for restoring trust and ensuring that Tansian University adheres to national educational standards.
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