NB247
The Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC) has quizzed the Chairman of the state Universal Basic Education Board, Victor Olabimtan, over allegations of buying of teaching slots in the recently concluded teachers recruitment exercise in the state.
Also invited for questioning were the Permanent Secretary of the board and board members.
It was also gathered that officials of Ondo State Teaching Service Commission were also brought for questioning over the scandal.
The agency commenced investigation into the allegations following outcry by candidates who complained that they were asked to pay certain sums of money to be able to gain employment.
Sources say candidates paid fees ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦750,000 to secure teaching positions.
A total of 1,100 teachers were listed for employment by the state government to fill the vacancies in primary schools across the state.
The recruitment exercise was conducted by SUBEB and that was promptly approved by the Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
However the allegations have cast doubts on the integrity of the process, with candidates, parents and opinion leaders calling for a thorough investigation into the matter.
Secretary of the Commission, Adewole Adeyeye, confirmed the interrogation of the officials of SUBEB, saying the scope of the investigation would be “kept as wide as possible.”
He said SPFACC urged victims to step forward to testify as it widens its probe into the allegations.
“The Chairman, Permanent Secretary and Directors of SUBEB have reported for investigation,” Mr Adeyeye said, when contacted for update on Sunday.
“They have made statements and submitted relevant documents. Same for TESCOM.
“Invited officials were released on bail and would be summoned as investigation progresses.”
While encouraging victims to courageously approach the commission to testify, Mr Adeleye said, “We are expecting them to submit evidences. And we will guide and protect them professionally.”