Nigeria’s Anti-graft agency, the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related offenses Commission (ICPC), says it has launched investigation into the alleged six weeks-degree awarding institution by a Cotonou University in Benin Republic, where many Nigerians obtained their degrees.
The spokesperson of the Commission, Mrs. Azuka Ogugua in a press statement noted that to verify details and move beyond speculation, ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, convened a critical meeting at the ICPC headquarters in Abuja with the under-cover reporter on the degree scandal.
She said the meeting discussed the December 30th report on alleged corrupt practices in rapid degree issuance at a Cotonou university, with the aim to deepen the investigation and initiate relevant actions.
“This probe will rigorously examine the networks and individuals engaged in these malpractices, with the objective of restoring and preserving the integrity of our educational system.
“The investigation into Ecole Superieure de Gestion et de Technologies (ESGT) in Cotonou reveals a concerning situation where degrees are allegedly awarded in as little as six weeks, bypassing standard academic procedures like application, registration, coursework, and examinations.”
The ICPC spokesperson explained that the Commission will engage in a synergistic collaboration with relevant domestic and international bodies to jointly evaluate the legitimacy of the academic qualifications procured from overseas institutions, especially those highlighted in the investigative report.
“The ICPC calls upon all stakeholders in the educational and governmental sectors to join hands in this critical endeavor. Together, we can work towards a future where the credibility of our educational qualifications is unimpeachable, and where corruption finds no refuge.”