EFCC Probes MOUAU Over N1bn TETfund Projects, as Bursar, Others May Face Dismissal

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) has come under a fresh investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged infractions in the award and execution of some TETFund projects valued at over ₦1 billion.

An anti-graft agency official, who pleaded anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly on the matter, disclosed this, saying the investigation centred on alleged failure to follow due process in the award and execution of the projects.

According to the source, the alleged infractions did not concern non-execution of the projects, but the processes followed in their award and execution.

He said the EFCC had primarily questioned the university’s Bursar over the matter during engagements in Lagos last week.

The official confirmed that the Bursar along side one other university staff were detained during the investigation, adding that the former Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Madu Iwe, had also been invited in connection with the matter.

He said the Bursar reportedly told EFCC investigators in his statement that some payments were made on the directive of the Vice-Chancellor, hence the invitation of the former Vice-Chancellor.

The source stressed that the matter was a fresh investigation and separate from earlier investigations involving the university.

Bursar, Registrar’s Earlier Suspension

Meanwhile, findings by National Ambassador indicate that the earlier suspension of MOUAU’s Registrar and Bursar which followed a decision of the Governing Council at its 96th Statutory Meeting, held from June 29 to July 3, 2026, to investigate the implementation of Council decisions and other administrative matters covering July 2024 to February 2026.

The Council had directed both officials to proceed on leave at the convenience of the Vice-Chancellor to enable an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to conduct its assignment without interference. The panel has since completed its work and submitted its report, which the Governing Council is expected to consider this week.

The panel, which sat for six weeks, is expected to have its report considered by the university’s Governing Council this week.

A lecturer, who also pleaded anonymity, said the suspension period of both the Registrar and Bursar had elapsed.

He explained that the Governing Council would determine the next course of action based on the findings of the panel.

According to him, if the report indicts the affected officials, they could face dismissal or other disciplinary measures, while those exonerated would return to their duty posts.

The fresh development has continued to generate reactions among stakeholders, with some financial experts and university sources calling for greater accountability in the management of TETFund funds and other public resources.

One concerned financial expert said the Bursar, as a professional financial officer, ought to have known the limits of his authority and insisted on compliance with due process where necessary.

Meanwhile, a university source commended the Governing Council, led by Comrade Fidelis C. Edeh, for its reported resolve to sanitise the institution and address alleged administrative and financial lapses.
The source urged the Council to remain firm and resist any attempt to lobby or influence its decisions, while ensuring that all parties affected by the investigations are treated fairly and in accordance with established procedures.

Efforts to obtain the university’s response from the Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mr. Anyaso Anyaso, proved abortive, as he did not respond to messages sent to his WhatsApp line as of press time.

Related