The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate an alleged ₦480 million bribery scheme involving members of the National Assembly and university vice-chancellors.
HEDA, a leading anti-corruption and good governance group, raised concerns over reports that some lawmakers are demanding bribes from vice-chancellors in exchange for the smooth passage of university budgets and funding approvals.
In a statement issued on Sunday, HEDA Chairman Olanrewaju Suraju described the alleged scheme as a direct attack on Nigeria’s education sector, warning that such corrupt practices undermine transparency, accountability, and the quality of higher education.
“We cannot allow a situation where public officials exploit their oversight functions to extort money from university administrators. The EFCC and ICPC must act swiftly to investigate this matter and bring all those involved to justice,” Suraju stated.
According to reports, lawmakers allegedly requested ₦10 million from each of the 48 federal universities, amounting to ₦480 million, to facilitate their institutions’ budgetary allocations and legislative approvals. Some vice-chancellors reportedly resisted the demand, prompting threats of budget cuts and unfavorable legislative scrutiny.
HEDA emphasized that such illicit demands violate public trust and hinder educational development, calling for a thorough investigation to expose and prosecute those involved.
“We urge the anti-corruption agencies to track financial transactions, interview the affected vice-chancellors, and ensure that no university leader is coerced into illegal financial deals,” Suraju added.
The organization also appealed to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), civil society organizations, and the general public to remain vigilant and demand accountability from elected officials overseeing education funding.
The EFCC and ICPC have yet to issue an official response to the allegations. However, education stakeholders are calling for a transparent probe to safeguard the integrity of university funding and governance in Nigeria.
