A member of the Governing Council of the University of Port Harcourt, Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, has filed a formal petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accusing the Council Chairman, Mr. Mao Ohoabunwo, of gross financial misconduct and abuse of office.
Peak Newspaper Nigeria gathered that the petition, which was also forwarded to the Federal Ministry of Education and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), alleges the diversion of over ₦370 million in donor funds, illegal contract awards, and consistent interference in the university’s academic and administrative operations.
In the document obtained by our correspondent on Thursday, Dr. Darma, who was appointed to the Governing Council in June 2024, claimed that Mr. Ohoabunwo had “systematically hijacked the financial operations of the university” since assuming office.
He further accused the chairman of engaging in contract splitting to bypass procurement laws and directly awarding vehicle procurement contracts to companies allegedly linked to him without following due process.
“It is my civic duty to report repeated and sustained violations of the EFCC Act 2004 by the Council Chairman,” the petition reads in part.
“There is credible evidence that the Council Chairman caused the award of contracts to pre-determined vendors without fair competition or proper prequalification.
A legal report from the university procurement committee dated July 3 and 4, 2025, substantiates this claim.”
He also urged the ICPC to open a parallel investigation into the financial activities under Ohoabunwo’s leadership, warning that failure to act could jeopardize public confidence in university governance.
“The credibility of our educational institutions must be protected at all costs,” he said.
“I am ready to provide sworn testimony and supporting documents upon request.”
