By 
Edo state-owned Ambrose Alli University (AAU) special intervention team has uncovered over N2 billion the institution owed the Edo state government from the taxes that were never paid to the latter’s account.
The team, which is headed by the Managing Director of Schlumberger Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Andrew Olotu, also alleged massive certificate and transcript racketeering and other nefarious acts in the institution.
The discoveries were contained in the team’s interim report it presented to Governor Godwin Obaseki at the Government House in Benin City, Edo state capital, Thursday.
The intervention team was set up by Governor Obaseki to advance the government’s vision to reposition the institution.
Presenting the report on behalf of other members of the team, Mr. Austin Osakue noted that “AAU receives more salaries compared to University of Benin (UNIBEN) staff and they never pay taxes.”
According to him, “All the Internally Generated Revenues (IGRs) and school fees collected were not accounted for and all the money entered private pockets instead of the school purse.
“We have been able to check this excess and now are able to collect N32 million in taxes for the Edo State Government.”
Also speaking, Mr. Omobude Agho, a representative of civil society organisations in Edo state, commended the team for a great job, urging the governor to ensure the immediate investigation and prosecution of those involved in the fraud in the varsity.
Governor Obaseki, while receiving the report, commended the team for their service to the state, noting that “The greatest legacy for late Prof. Ambrose Alli is to restore this University back to its glory days and that of his dreams.”
Obaseki added, “Your reports show that there is a criminal aspect in your investigation submitted so far. We don’t have to wait for a full report. That is why I invited the security agencies to commence action and investigation on the criminal aspect of your findings today.”(Blueprint)
Comments