In response to the alarming allegations of certificate racketeering involving Nigerian students and officials of Federal Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the House of Representatives has taken decisive action. The resolution to conduct a thorough investigation was reached following the adoption of a motion on the House floor last Wednesday.
The motion, moved by Abubakar Fulata, the representative for Birniwa/Guri/Kiri-Kasamma Federal Constituency of Jigawa State, highlighted the urgent need to address the issue. The investigative focus centers on uncovering the extent of involvement of officials from various MDAs in the alleged certificate racketeering activities.
The catalyst for this inquiry was the case of Umar Audu, a Nigerian reporter who, in December 2022, purportedly obtained a degree from a university in Cotonou, Benin Republic, within a remarkably short span of six weeks. Subsequently, Audu participated in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme, raising concerns about the credibility of educational qualifications and the integrity of the certification process.
Umar Audu further pointed fingers at unspecified officials within the Ministry of Education, accusing them of being part of the certificate racketeering syndicate. This revelation sparked widespread criticism and condemnation from concerned citizens across the nation.
During the motion debate, Abubakar Fulata passionately urged the House to take a comprehensive approach by identifying both officials of MDAs and students who have benefited from such institutions and their campuses over the past decade. The aim is to expose any systemic flaws and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent further exploitation of the educational system.
As the House of Representatives delves into this investigation, the nation eagerly awaits the outcomes, anticipating that it will shed light on the practices within government agencies and contribute to reforms that safeguard the integrity of academic certifications in Nigeria.