Bauchi Concerned Citizens Urge Probe, Suspension of ATAP Rector Over Alleged Misconduct
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Bauchi State Concerned Citizens have called for an independent investigation into alleged financial and administrative irregularities at the Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic (ATAP), Bauchi.
The group also urged the Bauchi State Government to suspend the Rector of the institution, Dr Hashim Sabo Bello, pending the outcome of the investigation.
The Chairman and Secretary of the group, Comrade A.A. Ladan and Hon. Bulus Gambo, respectively, made the call in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Bauchi.
The statement followed a press conference addressed by the group on Friday, Aug. 28, on the state of affairs at the polytechnic.
The group commended Gov. Bala Mohammed for constituting a visitation committee to the state-owned tertiary institutions, describing the move as necessary to ensure justice, fairness and compliance with due process.
It, however, alleged that the polytechnic was facing poor administration, financial irregularities, alleged misconduct, victimisation and disregard for due process.
The concerned citizens alleged, among other things, irregular operation of bursary functions, questionable appointments, alleged diversion of institutional funds and disposal of an official vehicle without the approval of the Governing Council.
They also alleged that the institution had been involved in several court cases under the current administration, including cases instituted by staff and the Rector.
The group further questioned the academic qualifications of the Rector, alleging deficiencies in his first degree and postgraduate credentials.
It also alleged that some academic and non-academic staff had been subjected to victimisation and selective disciplinary measures for exercising their constitutional rights.
The group said there were several pending petitions concerning staff welfare, security personnel remuneration, burglary and alleged theft of institutional property, urging relevant authorities to investigate them.
It called for the immediate establishment of an independent investigative panel to examine all the allegations and ensure justice and fairness.
The group further requested the suspension of the Rector and appointment of an interim administrator pending the outcome of the investigation.
It also urged authorities to secure and audit the institution’s financial records, cheque-signatory mandates and asset disposal documents.
The concerned citizens called for appropriate disciplinary and legal action against anyone found culpable.
It said all evidence supporting the allegations was available and could be presented before any investigative committee.
The group reiterated its support for the visitation committee, saying its intervention was long overdue and would help safeguard the image, integrity and academic standards of the institution.
It also commended Deputy Gov. Auwal Jatau for supporting the administration’s efforts to address concerns surrounding the state’s tertiary institutions.
