A parliamentary committee in Nigeria has called for equal punishment for individuals involved in certificate forgery, following a tour of several higher institutions in Lagos. The committee, led by Chairman Rep. Abubakar Fulata, visited the University of Lagos, Yaba College of Technology, Caleb University, and Lagos State University to investigate alleged certificate racketeering.
The investigation was prompted by a resolution of the House of Representatives, which was sparked by an investigative journalist’s exposé on the issue. Fulata expressed concern that the proliferation of fake certificates undermines the credibility of Nigerian universities. He noted that in the past, students had to study hard and pass required examinations to earn their degree certificates, but nowadays, some individuals are seeking to obtain certificates through illegal means.
The lawmaker emphasized that certificate forgery is often perpetrated by individuals, but the situation is worsened when university management and staff are complicit in the crime. He urged university administrators to enhance the security features of certificates to facilitate easy verification. Fulata also highlighted the consequences of certificate forgery, citing instances where individuals with fake certificates are unable to defend their claimed areas of study or even write their names properly, despite being mobilized for national service.
The committee’s call for equal punishment for accomplices of certificate forgery aims to address the growing concern about the integrity of Nigerian universities. The issue has significant implications for the country’s education system and the value of degrees awarded by Nigerian institutions. By advocating for stricter measures against certificate forgery, the committee seeks to protect the reputation of Nigerian universities and ensure that degree holders possess the necessary skills and knowledge. The investigation and subsequent recommendations are expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to strengthen the quality and credibility of education in Nigeria.