The Rivers State Government has launched a comprehensive investigation into allegations of extortion and examination malpractice at the State College of Medical Sciences in Port Harcourt.
As part of the initial steps, the government has suspended the head of a department linked to the allegations, although officials did not disclose the specific department involved.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Adaeze Oreh, made this known on Monday while addressing journalists in Port Harcourt. She said the decision followed a series of complaints accusing officials of demanding money for project approvals, selling examination questions and marking schemes, and collecting bribes to guarantee passes.
According to Oreh, the government has also constituted an investigative committee chaired by the Chief Medical Director of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital to thoroughly examine the allegations.
She said the state government maintains a strict zero-tolerance stance on corruption, particularly within institutions responsible for training healthcare professionals.
“This briefing is to clearly state the position of the Rivers State Ministry of Health and the Rivers State Government on zero tolerance for corruption in any form,” Oreh said.
“Recently, we received several allegations against the Rivers State College of Nursing Sciences, specifically within a department of the college. These allegations include extortion of unauthorised payments for project topic approvals, sale of examination questions and marking schemes, and bribery for guaranteed success in professional examinations.”
She disclosed that the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, as well as security agencies, were promptly notified once the allegations came to the attention of the ministry.
“We are treating these allegations with the seriousness they deserve. An investigative panel has been set up to carry out a detailed and independent inquiry,” she added.
Oreh said the panel is chaired by Prof Chizindu Alikor, with members including Dr Golden Ohonda, Dr Vincent Wachukwu, Dr Mariah Kukurubo and Mrs Sotonye Isokariari. Mrs Deima Wigbo will serve as secretary to the committee.
The commissioner explained that the panel has been mandated to investigate all allegations levelled against the affected department and make appropriate recommendations.
She further confirmed that the implicated official had been suspended, adding that the provost of the College of Nursing Sciences has been informed and an acting head of department will be appointed.
“There will also be a full forensic audit of the recent Year Two second-semester examinations. Students who come forward to assist the panel will be protected,” Oreh said.
She added that the ministry would carry out a broader review of both academic and financial practices within the institution.
Reiterating the government’s position, Oreh said the integrity of professional examinations would not be compromised under any circumstances.
“The allegations have been taken seriously, and anyone found guilty will be held accountable. Our priority is to ensure that our healthcare workforce is trained in an environment of integrity and professionalism,” she said.
