Public Complaints Commission Probes Alleged Mismanagement Of TETFund Grants In Taraba

 

The Nigerian Ombudsman, through the Public Complaints Commission, has launched an investigation into the management of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) grants across tertiary institutions in Taraba State following growing public concern over alleged irregularities.

 

The probe, anchored on Section 5(2) of the Public Complaints Commission Act, empowers the Commission to investigate administrative actions of government institutions either on its own initiative or in response to complaints. Acting on this mandate, the Commission commenced a review of TETFundactivities in key institutions across the state.

 

Institutions covered in the investigation include Taraba State University, Jalingo; Taraba State Polytechnic; College of Education, Zing; Federal University, Wukari; and Federal Polytechnic, Bali.

 

Preliminary findings from the ongoing investigation have revealed multiple infractions in the administration of TETFund interventions. Among the key discoveries is the alleged award of fellowship grants to individuals who were not staff of the benefiting institutions at the time of disbursement—an action said to be in violation of the Act establishing TETFund.

 

The Commission also uncovered cases where beneficiaries approved for overseas scholarships reportedly opted to study within Nigeria after receiving foreign training grants, without obtaining the necessary approvals.

 

During one of the case conferences held as part of the investigative process, Deputy Director of Investigation, Mr. Jerry Oliver, briefed officials of Taraba State Polytechnic on the purpose of their invitation. He urged beneficiaries who had overstayed their study period to expedite completion, while those who altered their institutions of study without authorization were directed to regularize their status.

 

Responding, the Registrar of Taraba State Polytechnic commended the Commission for what he described as a timely and professional intervention, noting that the institution would address all issues raised in the course of the investigation.

 

He assured that the Polytechnic would act on the recommendations expected from the final report.

 

The case conference was subsequently adjourned pending the submission of the investigation report and formal recommendations by the Commission.

 

The development is expected to heighten scrutiny on the administration of TETFund resources in Taraba State, amid calls for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public education funds.