ICPC Probes Cotonou Varsity Over Alleged Certificate Racketeering

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, has commenced investigations into Cotonou University’s alleged six-week degree scheme.

A statement by the ICPC’s spokesperson, Azuka Ogugua, said the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, convened a critical meeting on Tuesday with the undercover reporter on the case at the ICPC’s headquarters in Abuja.

According to the statement, they discussed the outlet’s December 30th report on alleged corrupt practices in rapid degree issuance at a Cotonou university, aiming to deepen the investigation and initiate relevant actions.

The statement read in part: “The investigation into Ecole Superieure de Gestion et de Technologies (ESGT) in Cotonou reveals a concerning situation where degrees are allegedly awarded in as little as six weeks, bypassing standard academic procedures like application, registration, coursework, and examinations.

“In response to these critical allegations, the ICPC is embarking on a thorough investigation. This probe will rigorously examine the networks and individuals engaged in these malpractices, with the objective of restoring and preserving the integrity of our educational system.

“Furthermore, the Commission will engage in a synergistic collaboration with relevant domestic and international bodies to jointly evaluate the legitimacy of academic qualifications procured from overseas institutions, especially those highlighted in the investigative report.

“The ICPC calls upon all stakeholders in the educational and governmental sectors to join hands in this critical endeavour. Together, we can work towards a future where the credibility of our educational qualifications is unimpeachable and where corruption finds no refuge.”