The announced probe of the Institute of Management and Technology, IMT, Enugu, has become a subject of controversy in the Coal City State.
Media Talk Africa recalls that Governor Peter Mbah’s administration had set up a committee with a mandate to evaluate the legal and policy framework underpinning the constitution of the Business Committee and thoroughly analyse the various categories of fees charged to students, investigating the methods of payment, designated accounts for transactions, and the overall management of fee-related processes.
The eight-man committee is headed by Prof. Ed Nwobodo.
However, there was a report that the probe is targeted at a former Chief of Staff in the State, Chief Mrs Ifeoma Nwobodo.
But in a statement made available to the media on Monday, Chief Malvin Eke, who is the leader of the Enugu Rights Protection Group said the probe was not about Nwobodo as the former chairman of the Governing Council of the IMT.
He said the panel named ‘Committee of inquiry into the accounts, management practices and staff conduct at IMT Enugu,’ clearly states its aim and focus.
He further cited the terms of reference which he said, clearly outlines the intention and direction of the probe.
The terms of reference include: “to thoroughly analyse the various categories of fees charged to students.
“Investigate the methods of payment, designated accounts for transactions and the overall management of fee related processes.
“Access the degree of adherence to pertinent laws, regulations and institutional policies in the selection and appointment of staff members, particularly those occupying key positions such as Heads of Department, Deputy Rector, etc.
“Identify and scrutinise all streams of revenue generation for the institution, delving into the mechanism for revenue collection, proper accounting practices for remittances, and the overall management of these financial resources.
“Investigate any instances of undue financial demands imposed on students either by lecturers or administrative body.”
Eke noted that the government was clear on its mandate to the panel and expressed worry that the said report clearly does not know the functions of a Governing Council which Chief (Mrs) Nwobodo was chairman before it was dissolved.
“It’s crystal clear what the government has set out to do,” Eke added, urging members of the public not to be distracted by what he called a distracting and sponsored report.
