News
Reps Refutes Extortion Allegations By VCs And Provosts, Emphasizes Constitutional Oversight
Eko Hot Blog reports that in a swift response to allegations of extortion leveled against the House of Representatives, the legislative body has categorically denied claims made by Vice-Chancellors and provosts.
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The accusations centered around the Committee on TETFund, chaired by Hon Miriam Onuah, allegedly demanding monetary contributions from educational administrators under the guise of oversight.
The spokesperson for the House of Representatives, Rotimi Akin, refuted the allegations, describing them as a “false and spent narrative.”
He asserted that the stories circulating were baseless and aimed at tarnishing the image of lawmakers. Akin clarified that legislative oversight or directives regarding funds appropriated for public institutions are well within the constitutional framework and do not compromise the autonomy of educational institutions.
Akin referenced the constitutional provisions, stating, “No monies shall be withdrawn from any public fund of the Federation, other than the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation unless the issue of those monies has been authorised by an Act of the National Assembly.”
He further highlighted sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution, which empower the National Assembly to investigate the affairs of entities responsible for disbursing or administering appropriated funds.
Addressing the specific allegations, Akin explained that the directive by the House Committee on TETFUND to suspend the implementation of the 2024 Intervention Fund pending approval is well within constitutional bounds.
He emphasized the need for accountability and insisted that accusations of extortion against the committee are baseless and potentially libelous.
Akin expressed concern about the standard of journalism in the country, stating, “the content of these reports raises fresh fears about the falling standard of journalism in our dear country.”
He urged caution against peddling false narratives and emphasized the importance of adhering to established channels for addressing grievances.
The spokesperson clarified that the scheduled hearing on February 27, 2024, is organized by a Joint Senate and House Committee on TETFund, demonstrating a collaborative and efficient approach.
Akin underscored that the absence of formal complaints from the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU) or TETFund indicates that the allegations are not representative of the majority of tertiary institutions’ administrators.
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In conclusion, Akin reaffirmed the commitment of the House of Representatives to effective service delivery, anti-corruption measures, and legislative oversight. He emphasized that hearings, such as the one in question, are part of the legislative agenda aimed at strengthening oversight functions and combating corruption in Nigeria.
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