Reps Panel Summons UNIZIK VC Over Alleged Poor Project Execution

The House of Representatives Committee on University Education has summoned Professor Carol Arinze-Umobi, Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra, over allegations of substandard project execution.

In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, Committee Chairman Rep. Abubakar Fulata disclosed the invitation, which follows the committee’s recent visit to UNIZIK. He emphasized that the invitation is not a witch-hunt but a necessary step to ensure progress in the nation’s universities.

The committee noted discrepancies between the data provided by the Vice Chancellor and the actual status of project execution on the ground. They questioned how the university management reported generating N1.5 billion in the previous year yet claimed to have spent approximately N3 billion from the same revenue source.

Rep. Fulata highlighted that spending funds without parliamentary appropriation violates the constitution. He expressed concern over the integrity of the university management, stating that presenting manipulated figures undermines trust in their leadership.

The committee’s oversight visit was prompted by public concerns that many government agencies could perform better if legislators conducted their oversight roles effectively. They emphasized that without proper utilization of previously approved funds, there is no justification for approving additional funding for any government organization.

The committee pointed out significant discrepancies and financial infractions in the university’s documents and requested that the Vice Chancellor appear before them at the National Assembly with relevant documentation for further review. One particular area of concern is the 100 percent payment for a project that is less than 40 percent complete, which the committee noted violates financial regulations.