The House of Representatives Committee on University Education has denied claims that lawmakers demanded ₦480 million in bribes to approve federal universities’ budget allocations for 2025.
Committee chairman Abubakar Hassan Fulata rejected the allegations, stating that the budget defense sessions were open to the public and media, with no closed-door meetings.
A report from an online news platform had alleged that lawmakers were pressuring university heads to pay ₦8 million each for budget approval.
The alleged scheme reportedly involved both senators and members of the House of Representatives, particularly those in committees overseeing tertiary education.
Fulata dismissed the accusations, saying legislators have been working to support universities.
He cited their role in securing the removal of tertiary institutions from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), which was seen as unsuitable for academic institutions.
He also highlighted oversight visits to federal universities, except for Federal University Gusau, whose vice-chancellor allegedly refused access and did not provide financial documents.
Another concern raised by lawmakers was the rising electricity costs for universities. Following their intervention, President Bola Tinubu approved a 50% electricity subsidy for tertiary institutions and hospitals.
Fulata stated that the budget defense for the National Universities Commission and university vice-chancellors took place publicly on January 15, 2025, after the Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
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