The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Gusau, Prof. Muazu Abubakar, has strongly denied claims suggesting that members of the House of Representatives Committee on University Education solicited a bribe of N480 million to approve the 2025 budgets for federal universities.
In a letter addressed to the committee’s chairman, Abubakar Fulata, dated January 27, the VC rebuffed media reports that alleged lawmakers demanded N8 million from each vice-chancellor as a precondition for budget approval. Abubakar specifically addressed a report that identified him as a “stubborn vice-chancellor,” stating his decision to respond was necessary to counter misleading narratives.
“The Federal University, Gusau, categorically denies any association with the claims made in the trending online report titled ‘Investigation: Nigerian Lawmakers Demand N480 million from Universities to Approve 2025 Budget.’ We urge the committee to disregard this sensational report, which seeks to undermine constructive journalism and mislead the public,” Abubakar emphasized.
He praised the committee’s support during the budget defense, describing the session as “robust, friendly, and engaging.”
Chairman Fulata also dismissed the allegations during a press briefing, labeling them as efforts to tarnish the committee’s reputation in enhancing Nigeria’s education sector. He expressed disbelief that anyone would suggest lawmakers demanded even a small amount in exchange for budget approvals.
Akin Rotimi, the House spokesman, echoed these sentiments, calling the media report a deliberate attempt to discredit the integrity of the House. He reaffirmed the commitment of the 10th House of Representatives to transparency and accountability, urging the public to recognize the baseless nature of the allegations.
