In a significant crackdown on academic fraud, the Ekiti State Police Command has uncovered an illegal university study centre operating within the state. Two individuals were apprehended for allegedly issuing counterfeit degree certificates to unsuspecting students.
Unveiling the Illicit Operation
Acting on intelligence reports, law enforcement officers raided the unauthorized facility, which had been masquerading as an accredited tertiary institution. The centre reportedly offered various degree programs without the requisite approvals from the National Universities Commission (NUC) or any recognized educational authority.
During the operation, authorities seized numerous forged academic documents, including degree certificates and transcripts. Preliminary investigations suggest that the centre had been operating for an extended period, enrolling students and collecting substantial fees under false pretenses.
Arrests and Charges
The two suspects, whose identities are being withheld pending further investigation, face multiple charges, including conspiracy, forgery, and operating an unlicensed educational institution. The Ekiti State Police Command has assured the public that thorough investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute all individuals involved in the fraudulent scheme.
Broader Context: The Menace of Fake Degrees in Nigeria
This incident in Ekiti State is part of a broader national concern regarding the proliferation of fake academic qualifications. In recent years, the Federal Government has intensified efforts to combat this issue. Notably, in August 2024, the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, revealed that over 22,700 Nigerians were found to possess counterfeit degree certificates obtained from institutions in Benin Republic and Togo.
The government has since suspended the accreditation of degrees from these countries and initiated comprehensive investigations into the operations of foreign and local institutions suspected of engaging in certificate racketeering.
NUC's Stance and Ongoing Efforts
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has been proactive in identifying and shutting down illegal universities across Nigeria. As of January 2024, the NUC had listed 58 unaccredited institutions operating within the country, warning that certificates from these entities would not be recognized for employment, further studies, or participation in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program.
The Commission has urged prospective students and parents to verify the accreditation status of universities before enrollment to avoid falling victim to such scams.
Legal Implications and Government Warnings
Individuals found guilty of obtaining or using fake academic certificates face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment. The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to prosecuting offenders, emphasizing that those who knowingly engage in such fraudulent activities are complicit in undermining the nation's educational integrity.
Public Advisory
The public is advised to exercise due diligence when seeking admission into tertiary institutions. Verification of an institution's accreditation status can be done through the official NUC website or by contacting the Commission directly. Employers are also encouraged to authenticate the academic qualifications of potential employees to ensure the credibility of their credentials.
The Ekiti State Police Command has reaffirmed its dedication to eradicating fraudulent educational practices and has called on citizens to report any suspicious academic institutions or activities.
For further information or to report suspected illegal educational operations, individuals can contact the Ekiti State Police Command or the National Universities Commission.
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