Fresh concerns over academic integrity have prompted the Rivers State Government to order a full-scale investigation into allegations of extortion and examination malpractice at the State College of Nursing Sciences in Port Harcourt.
The probe follows multiple complaints alleging money-for-marks practices, the sale of examination questions and marking schemes, and unauthorised payments demanded from students for the approval of project topics. As an initial step, the government has suspended the head of a department linked to the allegations, although the specific department has not been disclosed.
Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt on Monday, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Adaeze Oreh, said the state government was determined to uphold transparency and accountability in its health and training institutions. She announced that an investigative committee had been constituted to thoroughly examine the allegations and recommend appropriate action.
“This briefing is to demonstrate the firm position of the Rivers State Ministry of Health, and indeed the Rivers State Government, on zero tolerance for corruption in any shape or form,” Oreh said. She explained that the ministry had received several reports concerning alleged extortion within a department of the Rivers State College of Nursing Sciences, including bribery for guaranteed passes in professional examinations.
According to the commissioner, relevant regulatory and security agencies, including the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, were immediately notified once the allegations came to light. She stressed that the government was treating the matter with utmost seriousness to protect the integrity of professional training in the health sector.
The investigative panel is chaired by the Chief Medical Director of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Prof Chizindu Alikor. Other members include Dr Golden Ohonda, Dr Vincent Wachukwu, Dr Mariah Kukurubo and Mrs Sotonye Isokariari, with Mrs Deima Wigbo serving as secretary. The committee has been tasked with conducting an independent and comprehensive investigation into all allegations against the affected department.
Oreh also confirmed that the implicated official had been suspended, noting that the provost of the College of Nursing Sciences had been informed and that an acting head of department would be appointed. In addition, she announced that a full forensic audit of the recent Year Two second-semester examinations would be carried out.
To encourage cooperation, the commissioner assured students of protection if they come forward with information to support the investigation. She added that the ministry would also conduct a broader review of academic and financial practices within the institution.
Reiterating the government’s stance, Oreh said the ministry would not compromise the credibility of professional examinations meant to prepare healthcare workers for critical roles. “The allegations have not been taken lightly. This probe is to ensure that all guilty parties are held accountable and brought to book,” she said.