•says VCs fail to defend audit query allegations on financial impropriety
•raises concern over disturbing allegations of sexual harassment against staff, students, abuse of office
The leadership of the House of Representatives on Wednesday expressed its resolve to address bribery allegations levelled against some members by Vice Chancellors of federal universities across the country.
Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Akin Rotimi who gave the assurance via a statement made available to Parliamentary Correspondents, described the allegations as baseless and sensational, as well as a deliberate attempt to undermine the integrity of the House and erode public trust in this hallowed institution.
He said: “The House of Representatives has noted with concern a recent report by PREMIUM TIMES, alleging that some lawmakers in the National Assembly are demanding bribes from Vice-Chancellors of Federal Universities to approve their 2025 budget allocations.
“The 10th House of Representatives is firmly committed to transparency, accountability, and the highest ethical standards in all its legislative activities. These values form the bedrock of our operations.
“It is, therefore, imperative to address the baseless and sensational allegations in the report, which appear to be part of a deliberate attempt to undermine the integrity of the House and erode public trust in this hallowed institution.
“The budget process is a constitutionally guided and transparent exercise. The 2025 Appropriation Bill was presented by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to a Joint Session of the National Assembly, attended by key members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and the public.
“Following the presentation, various Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have been appearing at open Andrew public sessions to defend their budget proposals before the relevant committees. These sessions ensure rigorous scrutiny and accountability in public finance management.
“It is concerning, however, that some heads of federal tertiary institutions have failed to appear for these Budget Defence Sessions, despite their constitutional obligation to do so.
“This disregard for the legislative process not only impedes legislative oversight and undermines the principles of accountability, but demonstrates disregard for the parliament, and the Nigerian people.
“Furthermore, it is a matter of public record that some of these tertiary institutions have pending audit queries from the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation and have consistently failed to appear before the House Committee on Public Accounts to clarify these issues.
“This evasion raises questions about their governance practices and financial stewardship.
“This is in addition to disturbing allegations of sexual harassment, abuse of office and high handedness in their dealings with staff and students, for which legislative oversight provides a crucial platform to address in the spirit of transparency.
“It is also noteworthy that recent oversight visits by the House Committee on University Education have revealed troubling governance practices in certain institutions.
“While the final report is being compiled, preliminary findings in certain institutions suggest a pattern of serious malfeasance that demands thorough investigation.
“These engagements provide an opportunity for institutions to demonstrate accountability, yet some individuals have chosen to deflect with unfounded accusations and blackmail.
“To be clear, the House acknowledges the commitment of the majority of university administrators, who are diligent and patriotic Nigerians working to advance education and national development.
“However, the actions of a few actors seeking to evade scrutiny cannot be overlooked. The House remains resolute in holding public institutions accountable while respecting due process.
“Notably, PREMIUM TIMES has failed to uphold the principles of balanced journalism. The report in question lacks any diligent investigative effort as they would want people to believe, and instead amplifies fabricated narratives by individuals seeking to evade accountability.
“Unfortunately, the medium which has become their preferred outlet for such baseless sensationalism, did not seek a reaction from the House Spokesman before publishing the story, undermining its credibility and professionalism. A reaction was only requested on Monday, two days after the story was already in the public domain.
“The House encourages anyone with credible evidence of misconduct to present it to the appropriate authorities, including the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges or anti-corruption agencies like the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to independently investigate any claim of impropriety.
“This is a challenge we have consistently put forth to PREMIUM TIMES, but rather than rising to the occasion in the country’s best interest, they continue to indulge in sensationalism.
“Baseless allegations and media sensationalism will not distract the 10th House from its constitutional mandate to ensure accountability, good governance, and the welfare of Nigerians. Institutions that have adhered to laid-down procedures have had their budgets approved without issue, while those with outstanding obligations will be required to meet their responsibilities.
“We call on all stakeholders, particularly the media, to approach their responsibilities with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to nation-building. Together, we can strengthen our democracy and promote a more accountable and transparent governance system.”
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