Staff members of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam, have raised alarm over allegations of contract fraud, financial mismanagement, and admission racketeering involving the Acting Vice-Chancellor (Ag. VC) of the institution. They are demanding an immediate investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other relevant authorities.
The staff, represented by Mr. Joseph Onu, a Managing Consultant at Shield and Sword Consult, an Abuja-based law firm, expressed disappointment that three weeks after submitting a petition to the EFCC, no investigation has commenced.
The petition accuses the Ag. VC of financial crimes linked to contract manipulation, misallocation of research grants, and bribery in admission processes. Specific allegations include:
🔹 Contract Splitting & Procurement Act Violation: Alleged fraudulent award of a N4 billion TETFUND project to family members without transparency.
🔹 Research Grant Misappropriation: At least 72 beneficiaries of the TETFund Institution-Based Research Grant allegedly coerced into paying kickbacks of between N190,000 and N600,000 into a private Moniepoint account.
🔹 Admission Racketeering: Admission slots for Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Law reportedly sold for as much as N3 million to undeserving candidates.
🔹 Solar Installation Fraud: A N20 million solar system project allegedly awarded to a relative of the Ag. VC.
🔹 Diversion of ‘Genius Fund’ meant to assist indigent students.
The petitioners also claim the Student Union Government (SUG) is being used to suppress dissent and counter criticisms. They are calling on the Pro-Chancellor, University Council, and Anambra State Government to ensure accountability and transparency in the university’s administration.
“If proven true, these allegations will severely damage the institution’s reputation and undermine academic integrity,” the petitioners stated, adding that regular updates on the investigation should be provided to the public.
The EFCC is yet to officially respond, but pressure is mounting as stakeholders insist that urgent action is needed to uphold fairness and meritocracy at COOU.
