T he Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Gusau, Prof. Muazu Abubakar, has refuted allegations claiming that members of the House of Representatives Committee on University Education demanded N480 million to approve the 2025 budgets of federal universities.
In a letter dated January 27, addressed to the committee’s chairman, Abubakar Fulata, Prof. Abubakar dismissed media reports alleging that lawmakers pressured vice-chancellors to pay N8 million each as a condition for budget approval. He clarified that while the report identified a "stubborn vice-chancellor" believed to be him, he felt compelled to respond to prevent the spread of misinformation.
“The Federal University, Gusau, categorically states that no member of our team present during the budget defence was involved in any activities described in the media report. We urge Mr. Chairman and esteemed committee members to disregard this misleading and sensational report aimed at distorting public perception,” the VC stated.
Prof. Abubakar praised the committee for its constructive engagement during the budget defence, describing the session as “robust, friendly, and engaging.”
Similarly, Abubakar Fulata, chairman of the House Committee on University Education, had earlier denounced the allegations during a press briefing, labeling them as an attempt to tarnish the committee’s reputation and undermine its efforts to improve Nigeria’s education sector.
“It is absurd to suggest that lawmakers demanded even a kobo as a precondition for approving budget proposals,” Fulata remarked, emphasizing that the report sought to mislead the public about the committee's activities and the integrity of the 10th House of Representatives.
House spokesman Akin Rotimi also condemned the report, describing it as a deliberate effort to smear lawmakers’ reputations. “The 10th House of Representatives remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the highest ethical standards. These values are fundamental to our operations,” Rotimi asserted.
He further criticized the report for lacking investigative rigor, suggesting it was fueled by individuals seeking to deflect accountability. “The baseless and sensational allegations aim to erode public trust in this institution, but we stand firm in upholding our legislative duties with integrity,” he concluded.
GLiDE NEWS will continue to monitor this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
0 Comments