The House of Representatives’ ad hoc committee tasked with investigating job racketeering within various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) has emphatically refuted allegations of extortion made against them.
The committee dismissed these accusations as unfounded and baseless.
In response to the allegations, the committee has taken a proactive step by summoning all Vice-Chancellors (VCs) of federal universities.
These educational leaders are requested to provide documentary evidence related to the alleged extortion by a member of the committee.
The summoned VCs are expected to appear before the committee on September 1, 2023.
During an ongoing investigative hearing on job racketeering that affects more than 400 MDAs, Chairman Yusuf Gagdi issued the summon on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, in Abuja. Gagdi, while addressing the allegations, criticized an online report that accused the committee of extorting money from agencies.
He stressed that it is unjust to label all 37 members of the committee as “corrupt” based on such claims.
Gagdi asserted that the committee will not be swayed by any form of “sponsored blackmail” as it fulfills its legislative responsibilities.
He maintained that while he leads the committee, he was unaware of any member collecting money from MDAs. Gagdi encouraged individuals with information about specific members to report their concerns directly rather than casting a shadow over the entire committee.
Highlighting the committee’s dedication to their role, Gagdi emphasized that attempts to use indicting headlines will not deter their progress.
He pointed out that Nigerians place high expectations on the committee’s work and emphasized that the recommendations they provide will be groundbreaking in the history of the National Assembly.
Gagdi revealed that these recommendations will be targeted at cleansing the public service and reiterated the committee’s unwavering commitment to its task.
While addressing the media, Gagdi urged responsible journalism, emphasizing that sensational headlines should not be used at the expense of truth.
He reaffirmed the committee’s determination to move forward and perform their duty without yielding to undue pressure.
Consequently, the committee has instructed its Clerk to write to the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) to ensure the appearance of all VCs before the committee on Friday.
The summoned VCs are to provide clarity and insight into the allegations that have been raised.
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