Fresh allegations of bias and procedural abuse have trailed the Federal Ministry of Education over the controversial appointment of a substantive Bursar at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Omoku, Rivers State.
Stakeholders accused the college’s Governing Council Chairman, Obong Stephen Leo Ntukepo, of altering an approved advert for the position to favour a preferred candidate, allegedly violating the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) guidelines.
The disputed clause reportedly expanded eligibility to include “Accountant Cadre or its equivalent,” against the NCCE’s stipulation that only Deputy Bursars on CONTDISS 15 could apply. Critics argue that the move was intended to benefit the college’s Director of Audit, Mr Victor Ahiakwo.
They also faulted the Chairman for relocating the interview venue from Omoku to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, his hometown, without Council approval and for bypassing the legally required Selection Board.
Multiple petitions to the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, have reportedly gone unanswered, fuelling perceptions of complicity.
College unions have threatened to go on strike if the recruitment process is not reviewed in line with NCCE regulations.
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