The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre has condemned an alleged N480 million bribery scandal involving members of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFund, as well as the House Committee on University Education. The civil society organization has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to launch an urgent probe into the matter.
The bribery allegations, first reported by PREMIUM TIMES, suggest that some lawmakers demanded illicit payments from vice-chancellors of federal universities in exchange for approving their 2025 budget allocations.
In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the organization described the revelations as deeply disturbing and a direct attack on Nigeria’s already struggling education system.
Suraju stated:
> “It is unacceptable that university administrators, who are entrusted with managing the country’s citadels of learning, are being subjected to intimidation and coercion by lawmakers who should be championing transparency and accountability.”
HEDA argues that the alleged bribery not only violates ethical and legal standards but further entrenches corruption in Nigeria’s education sector, which is already plagued by chronic underfunding, mismanagement, and dwindling resources.
The group has demanded swift action from anti-corruption agencies, urging the EFCC and ICPC to conduct a thorough investigation to expose those involved and ensure they face justice.
Suraju emphasized:
> “The lawmakers allegedly involved must be identified, investigated, and, if found guilty, prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Corruption, particularly in the education sector, undermines national development, weakens institutions, and erodes public trust in governance.”
Beyond the anti-corruption agencies, HEDA has also called on President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the National Assembly to take decisive action against those involved. The organization stressed that the National Assembly must not become a breeding ground for corruption, but rather uphold the principles of integrity and good governance.
Suraju warned that if these allegations—echoing previous extortion claims against legislators—are confirmed, those responsible must face disciplinary measures.
> “The recurrence of such scandals suggests a dangerous trend of impunity within the legislative arm of government. If left unchecked, this will continue to weaken our institutions and embolden corrupt officials.”
HEDA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for transparency, accountability, and good governance, urging all stakeholders—including civil society organizations, the media, and the general public—to resist and expose corruption at all levels.
> “Our education sector deserves better. Those entrusted with policymaking should not exploit their positions for personal gain. We must all work together to protect the future of our institutions.”
With mounting public outcry over the scandal, the spotlight is now on the EFCC, ICPC, and the National Assembly to demonstrate their commitment to fighting corruption and restoring integrity in governance.
PIONEER NEWS 