A controversy is brewing in the National Assembly as members of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND admit to receiving $1,000 each as “appreciation money” amid allegations surrounding the approval of federal university budgets.
An investigation revealed that both Senate and House committees on tertiary education allegedly demanded ₦8 million from each federal university, with vice-chancellors who refused facing political threats. In total, an estimated ₦480 million was extorted from federal universities, while another ₦528 million was allegedly collected from 66 polytechnics and colleges of education.
A senator, speaking anonymously, confirmed receiving the money but insisted committee members were unaware of its source. “The chairpersons, deputies, and clerks run many committees. Sometimes, we don’t even know who the committee members are,” the lawmaker said.
Reports indicate that the alleged payments were made in cash during committee meetings in January to avoid detection. While the National Assembly has officially denied the allegations, sources claim lawmakers are working to discredit the investigation and silence university officials.
Hassan Fulata, Chairman of the House Committee on University Education, has accused Abubakar Gusau, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Gusau, of insubordination for allegedly blocking lawmakers’ access, an accusation that only surfaced after the bribery reports went public.
As the controversy deepens, some university officials have begun pledging loyalty to lawmakers, fearing legislative retaliation.
