University of Jos Vice-Chancellor Grilled by EFCC Over Alleged N355 Million Fraud

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has intensified its investigation into allegations of fraud involving the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Ishaya Tanko. The probe revolves around the purported misappropriation of a staggering sum of N355 million.

According to sources within the EFCC, Prof. Tanko was summoned for questioning on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, following a letter dated March 19, 2024, signed by Adebayo Adeniyi, Zonal Commander, Abuja. The commission’s letter, addressed to Prof. Tanko, urged him to appear for an interview along with Dr. Yusuf Abdullahi, the University’s Deputy Dean of Student Affairs, to address the allegations.

The allegations stem from claims that Prof. Tanko diverted the substantial funds to various private accounts, purportedly to settle rent liabilities for the university’s liaison offices in Lagos and Abuja. However, scrutiny has arisen regarding the ownership of these properties, with some staff members alleging they were already purchased by previous administrations.

An internal petition to the Minister of Education further detailed the alleged misconduct, accusing Prof. Tanko of orchestrating a fraudulent scheme involving the transfer of funds to a company named Kolo Global Concept Ltd. Despite lacking any formal contract with the university, the company reportedly received significant payments, which were subsequently distributed to other accounts as directed by Prof. Tanko.

The petition also raised concerns about Prof. Tanko’s extravagant foreign travels, which were deemed to provide minimal benefit to the university while draining its finances. Urging swift action from authorities, the petition emphasized the importance of upholding a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption.

Efforts to reach Prof. Tanko and the University’s public relations officer, Abdullahi B. Abdullahi, for comment were unsuccessful, as they failed to respond to calls and messages.

The University of Jos community and the public at large await further developments as the EFCC continues its investigation into this high-profile case of alleged financial misconduct.