Allegations of financial misconduct have emerged at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) in Rivers State, following a petition submitted to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The petition accuses Mao Ohoabunwo, the Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, of corrupt practices and calls for urgent investigation.
The petition, obtained by DAILY GAZETTE on Thursday, was filed by Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, a current member of the Governing Council.
Dr. Darma urged for immediate action into what he described as a systematic hijacking of the university’s finances under the chairman’s leadership.
Addressed also to the Federal Ministry of Education, the document highlights alleged financial mismanagement, abuse of institutional power, and illegal interference in both academic and administrative affairs by the Council Chairman.
The petition states, “I am a member of the Governing Council of the University of Port Harcourt, duly appointed in June 2024 by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I submit this petition with deep concern for the financial integrity of one of our nation’s leading universities.”
“It is my civic duty to report repeated and sustained violations of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act 2004 by the Council Chairman of the Governing Council, Mao Ohoabunwo. I respectfully bring to the attention of the Commission the following acts committed under the supervision and personal directive of the Chairman: Unlawful splitting of contracts to bypass procurement thresholds and oversight.”
“Procurement fraud involving the award of vehicle contracts to companies associated with the Chairman without competitive bidding. Diversion and concealment of public donations totalling over N370 million.”
“The Council Chairman caused the award of contracts to pre-determined vendors without fair competition and proper prequalification. Evidence from the report of the legal representative on the University procurement committee dated July 3 and 4, 2025, supports this allegation.”
“I hereby request that the EFCC: Commence a full investigation into the financial activities of the Chairman of the Governing Council. Investigate the procurement process for vehicles acquired under his directive. Freeze accounts or properties linked to misappropriated donor funds. Prosecute all involved parties under the EFCC Act.”
“These actions are necessary not only to uphold the rule of law but to protect public institutions and restore confidence in university governance. I am available to provide sworn testimony and additional documents as may be required.”
Additionally, Dr. Darma has appealed to the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) to initiate a separate investigation into financial dealings during Ohoabunwo’s tenure as chairman.
