The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has urged the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to expand its corruption probes to include the leadership of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). This call comes after charges were filed against contractors accused of receiving payments for unexecuted projects funded by TETFund.
In a petition signed by HEDA Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, and addressed to ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, the organisation commended the Commission for initiating legal action against Paul Chukwuma and Fides Et Ratio Academy Ltd. on September 10, 2024, as well as Adedeji Ladipo and Pole Global Marketing Limited on September 20, 2024. The cases involve allegations of corruption and money laundering tied to fraudulent contracts.
However, HEDA raised concerns about the apparent lack of accountability for TETFund’s leadership, which authorised the questionable contracts. The group alleged that these actions violated the Public Procurement Act 2007 and Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) regulations, arguing that TETFund’s management should be considered complicit in the corruption scandal.
“Paying for unexecuted contracts in breach of procurement laws is not only a theft from the nation but also a denial of vital infrastructure for Nigerians,” the petition stated. HEDA called on the ICPC to ensure impartial prosecution of both public officials and private entities involved in corrupt practices.
The organisation emphasised that holding all parties accountable, including government officials who facilitate such deals, is essential to restore public confidence in anti-corruption efforts. It also highlighted the importance of such prosecutions as a deterrent to future misconduct.
HEDA’s latest demand follows its earlier petition submitted on April 29, 2024, and a subsequent request for updates on the investigation made on November 4, 2024. The organisation reiterated its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and justice within public institutions.
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Chronicles Reporters