In a riveting exposé released by DAILY NIGERIAN, citizens are reeling with shock and outrage at the uncovering of rampant corruption within the education system of Nigeria and other West African countries. The report, unveiled on December 30, 2023, divulged a distressing tale of fraudulent activities through which individuals obtained expedited degrees from universities in Cotonou, Benin Republic.
The investigation, conducted by DAILY NIGERIAN’s intrepid reporter Umar Audu, unveiled a disconcerting truth – a four-year degree program could be “completed” in less than two months at Ecole Superieure de Gestion et de Technologies (ESGT), Cotonou, without the need for application, registration, studying, or taking exams. This shocking revelation has sparked public outcry and calls for immediate action to rectify the deep-rooted corruption within the educational and regulatory systems.
Social media platforms became the battleground for public condemnation and demands for accountability. Support poured in for the investigative journalism prowess of DAILY NIGERIAN, with commendations from influential figures. Former minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Ali Pantami, expressed grave concern over the adverse impact of such deceit on human capital development and called for a comprehensive review of certificates awarded in Cotonou and other countries.
Renowned investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo lauded Umar Audu for unmasking the clandestine operation, reinforcing the gravity of the situation. Even a former senator, Shehu Sani, highlighted the disparity and injustice caused by the recognition of these expedited degrees. Activists, scholars, and ordinary citizens echoed these sentiments, demanding a thorough investigation and purge of unqualified individuals from public service roles obtained through these sham degrees.
On Facebook, users like Abdullahi Dahiru and Isah Mansur further emphasized the pervasive rot within regulatory and enforcement institutions, underscoring the dire need for stringent measures to weed out corrupt officials and rectify the flaws in the system.
The shocking revelations have heightened the urgency for swift and resolute action to address the ramifications of the Cotonou degree racket. As the public clamors for justice and reform, the spotlight is now on the authorities to demonstrate their commitment to upholding the integrity of education and eradicating the scourge of corruption within the system.
