Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic Mubi Under Fire for Alleged Reckless Spending

[justseyi]

The Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, in Adamawa State, has come under scrutiny following allegations of financial mismanagement and questionable expenditures by its governing council. A petition, submitted to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) by human rights lawyer Mohammad Aliyu on behalf of concerned citizens in Mubi, calls for an immediate investigation into the council’s financial dealings.

Allegations at a Glance

Aliyu’s petition accuses the governing council of violating established financial regulations, including the Public Procurement Act of 2007 and the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act of 2000. The allegations paint a picture of reckless and unaccountable spending within the institution, potentially putting its financial stability at risk.

1. Lavish Protocol Expenses

The council allegedly spent a staggering N100 million on protocol services within just two months of assuming office. If this trend continues, it is projected to escalate to N600 million annually—an amount critics argue could be better utilized for academic or infrastructural development.

2. Dubious Private Contracts

The petition also highlights irregularities in the awarding of contracts for key services, including:

• Student Portal Management: A private company has reportedly been contracted to manage the institution’s portal, charging students N5,000 per session without adhering to procurement laws.
• Private Security Services: The council engaged a private security firm that charges N100,000 per guard per month, raising questions about the necessity and value of this arrangement.

Consequences for Students and the Institution

These financial commitments, the petition alleges, have placed undue financial burdens on students while straining the institution’s already limited resources. Aliyu warned that such practices could lead to unrest within the polytechnic community.

“The imposition of these unnecessary expenses on students and the institution is not only alarming but could also destabilize the polytechnic environment,” the petition states.

A Call for Accountability

The petition calls on the ICPC to urgently investigate these allegations to ensure compliance with financial and procurement laws. Aliyu expressed hope that swift action would not only curb reckless spending but also restore financial discipline to the institution.

What’s at Stake?

With these allegations in the public domain, the governing council faces growing pressure to address the concerns raised. Stakeholders, including students, staff, and the wider community, are awaiting the ICPC’s response and subsequent actions.

Conclusion

The Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, stands at a crossroads. The outcome of this petition could determine whether accountability and transparency prevail or if questionable financial practices continue to hinder the institution’s progress. Only time will tell how this case unfolds, but the call for reform has undoubtedly been made loud and clear.

4o

[Author]

Posts