The Amupitan we know, by UNIJOS lecturers

Lecturers at the University of Jos (UNIJOS) have showered encomiums on Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN. They described him as a man of integrity, humility, and uncommon character, whose decades of service to the university and the nation stand him out as a model public servant.

Prof. Amupitan, who has taught Law for decades and currently serves as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the university, is being hailed by his colleagues as a principled academic and a man whose moral compass has remained unshaken despite his many accomplishments.

Speaking with The Nation in Jos, Prof. Taye Obateru of the Department of Mass Communication, who has known Amupitan for over 20 years, said the law professor’s humility and consistency are rare in the academic and public spheres.

‘I have known Prof. Amupitan for 20 years now, right from my days as a journalist before I joined the university,’ Obateru said. ‘He has always been humble and unassuming. People often say that when others get into new offices, they change, but not with this man. Even as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, he has not changed the way he relates with people.’

Obateru added that Prof. Amupitan’s brilliance and success have never affected his character.

‘He is successful both in private and public life. His wife, now an Associate Professor, and his well-brought-up children speak volumes about his values. Despite his achievements, he remains down-to-earth and approachable,’ he noted.

Dismissing rumours or suggestions of any impropriety, Obateru stressed: ‘To my knowledge, Prof. Amupitan has never appeared before any disciplinary panel in the university. Personally, if I were asked to nominate him as the next INEC Chairman, I would do so 100 times. I’m convinced he would perform excellently in that capacity.’

Also speaking, Dr. (Mrs.) Rabiatu Abdullahi Musa, Head of the Department of Public Law, described Prof. Amupitan as a mentor, family man, and devout Christian who embodies integrity in both his private and professional life.

‘I have known Prof. Amupitan for about 30 years now-since my undergraduate days,’ Musa said. ‘His wife was my classmate, and we were also together at the Nigerian Law School. I know the family very well. He is a good father, a good husband, and a disciplined professional who cares deeply for others.’

She described him as a man who ‘takes other people’s challenges as his own,’ adding: ‘To the best of my knowledge, Prof. Amupitan has never faced any disciplinary panel in the university. He is too disciplined and too committed to his job to earn even a query. He is a devout Christian and one of the most dependable colleagues anyone could have.’

Dr Musa, like others, strongly recommended him for national service.

‘Prof. Amupitan is the best man for the INEC job. He has all it takes to hold that office and excel. Even in my dreams, I will recommend him. President Tinubu, I believe, knows he is the right man for the moment,’ she said.

Similarly, Dr Yilkanq Wulenqkah of the Department of International Law and Jurisprudence described Amupitan as an ‘academic par excellence’ and ‘an incorruptible man of integrity.’

‘I have known Prof. Amupitan for close to 20 years-from my undergraduate days through to my PhD. He taught me at every stage. He is an intellectual giant and an academic of the highest standard,’ Wulenqkah said.

He lauded Amupitan’s humility and accessibility: ‘He accommodates everyone, never discriminates, and relates easily with people of all ages. Despite his academic heights, he remains humble. He is successful both in private and public life and has never been fingered in any problem in the university.’

Describing him as a legal luminary, Wulenqkah added, ‘He is vast in electoral and constitutional law. I would recommend him for any position anywhere in the world, not just in Nigeria.’

Across the University of Jos, the name Joash Amupitan, SAN, resonates not only as a scholar of distinction but as a man whose life, colleagues say, reflects discipline, faith, compassion, and incorruptibility – qualities they insist are rare and sorely needed in leadership today.

Massive infrastructure coming in 2026, says Wike

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has told residents of the nation’s capital that 2026 will usher in massive infrastructure.

Wike spoke at the flag-off of the construction of Collector Road CN2 in Katampe District, a vital project aimed at opening up the Gishiri area.

The minister noted the significance of the timing, as the FCT attains its golden age of 50 years by next February.

He promised that 2026 would ‘be a different year altogether that will see massive infrastructure turnaround in the FCT, something nobody has seen since the FCT was created’.

Speaking on the Collector Road CN2 road project, the FCT minister recalled that after the inauguration of the Gishiri interchange and dualisation project last June, he urged the contractor, Chinese Geoengineering Construction (CGC), to begin the linking of the road, even before the contract was formally awarded, to ensure the project’s maximum impact.

He praised the contractor for demonstrating faith in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Wike said: ‘To the glory of God, they went ahead. Now, we are in the process of awarding the contract and looking at what they are doing. I want to commend CGC for having that trust and confidence in the government of President Tinubu.’

The minister also stated that the road project, along with others, has been slated for inauguration during President Tinubu’s third anniversary.

According to him, its completion is expected to significantly appreciate the value of real estate in the territory, thereby allowing economic activities to thrive.

‘This is one of the projects we have earmarked for Mr. President to inaugurate on his third anniversary celebration. I know they will not fail us,’ he added.

Wike announced that the CGC was also executing other major FCT projects, including the water supply project in Karu, Karshi, Orozo, and Bwari, as well as the dualisation of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX), which is an eight-lane road leading to Apo/Wasa District. The minister urged the company to continue utilising local content and providing employment opportunities for FCT residents. He also solicited the support of the residents to ensure the timely completion of the project.

Regina Daniels to gift fans N10m on birthday

Actress Regina Daniels is spreading joy to fans by giving away N10 million to 10 lucky winners for her birthday.

In an Instagram post, the mother of two expressed excitement about marking another year of life, claiming she hasn’t felt this enthusiastic about her birthday in six years.

Regina attributed the renewed enthusiasm to her newfound appreciation for life, motherhood, and her loving family.

She reflected on how her perspective on birthdays changed after joining her husband’s family, which didn’t prioritise celebrations.

However, she said she’s now embracing the joy of celebrating life and giving to others.

She said: ‘Guys, I know this might turn into a long one, but let’s just call it a little self-reflection note. Believe it or not, I haven’t felt this much excitement about celebrating my birthday in the last six years. Funny thing is, I used to absolutely love birthdays back in the day-until I joined my beautiful family that didn’t really care for celebrations.

‘But I’m happy everyone now sees the need to celebrate life and ofcourse with motherhood and wifey duties that energy slowly shifted. You know this past year has made me realize God has so much in store for me because tell me why a girl as young as I am yet so old in soul is carrying generations while building hers. You see why I say even God Dey do partial.

‘Here’s the icing on the cake. There’s something I’ve been enjoying doing for a while now and that is gifting my online fam. so since 10/10 is my code, let’s make 10 people millionaires. That’s to say A million each. I don’t even know how to go about it, I guess pick randomly’.

Former deputy governors pledge to deepen democracy, good governance

Former Deputy Governors in Nigeria, under the aegis of the Former Deputy Governors Forum of Nigeria (FDGF), have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening democracy and promoting good governance across the country.

The pledge was made on Thursday in Abuja during the commissioning of the Forum’s new state-of-the-art secretariat. Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debt, Senator Aliyu Wamakko, described the inauguration as a major milestone in the Forum’s mission to foster patriotism, leadership mentorship, accountability, and national unity.

The event was attended by several prominent members of the Forum, including Alhaji Abdulmalik Mahmood (Bauchi), Prince Ezeakonobi Madumere (Imo), Tele Ikuru (Rivers), and James Magaji (Kaduna), alongside the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, members of the National Assembly, diplomats, and other dignitaries.

Commissioning the edifice, Senator Wamakko, a former Deputy Governor and later Governor of Sokoto State, emphasized that the Forum’s true strength lies in its collective wealth of experience and steadfast dedication to advancing governance, transparency, and public trust in leadership.

Describing the secretariat as a symbol of unity, progress, and renewed commitment to nation-building, he said, ‘Our forum is very strong today, and we are a symbol of the country’s unity.

‘This is more than brick and mortar, it represents Nigeria’s future, built on cooperation, accountability, and the shared experience of leaders who have served and still care deeply about the nation.’

The Chairman of the Forum and former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Dr. Chris Akomas, said the structure represents the fulfillment of a long-held dream and the forum’s growing national and international relevance.

‘This forum is driven by interest, willingness, and commitment to national development. What gives us courage is our belief that we can achieve the best for our country, our children, and generations to come.

‘We once had an office tucked away in Garki, just a small upstairs space. But to the glory of God, we now have a fully equipped secretariat. This is the beginning of a new era for the forum.’

Dr. Akomas said the forum intends to use its new home as a base for promoting national cohesion, policy dialogue, and mentorship for emerging leaders.

‘This is not just a building, it’s a vision taking shape, one that connects our past leadership experiences to the promise of a better, more united Nigeria.

‘With our new secretariat, the Former Deputy Governors Forum aims to position itself as a stabilizing force in Nigeria’s democratic journey, strengthening governance, deepening policy advocacy, and inspiring future leaders through the collective wisdom of those who have once served in government,’ he added.

On her part, Dame Pauline Tallen, former Deputy Governor of Plateau State and member of the Forum’s Board of Trustees, said the new secretariat marked a defining moment in the organization’s history, adding, ‘We are no longer borrowing spaces or holding meetings in hotels.

‘This building is a statement of who we are, united, purposeful, and committed to the growth of Nigeria.’

The new secretariat boasts two committee rooms, a boardroom, a 40-seater conference hall, and a showroom for the Polish-Nigerian Business Council, reflecting the forum’s evolution into a key player in governance, mentorship, and economic diplomacy, the Forum’s Chairman added.

Do2dtun urges DJs, Hypemen to adjust rate cards ahead of ‘Detty December’

Media personality Do2dtun has issued a public service announcement to DJs and hypemen, advising them to review and adjust their rates ahead of the festive season.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Do2dtun noted that many musicians tend to charge exorbitant fees during the period, which could make them unaffordable for some brands and individuals.

He suggested that DJs and hypemen should take advantage of this by offering more flexible pricing to fill entertainment slots that might otherwise remain vacant due to budget constraints.

He wrote, ‘This is a public service announcement to all Hypeman and DJs yet again. We are getting close to that time of the season where our beloved musicians will charge ridiculously, and maybe some brands and individuals can’t afford it. So, pls adjust your rate cards so you can fill in for them. Hype is alive.’

Similarly, comedian Mr. Jollof recently criticised the high performance fees charged by Nigerian artists, describing them as ‘unrealistic.’ He warned that the trend could dampen the festive season’s celebrations and urged musicians to reconsider their rates in consideration of fans and event organisers facing rising costs.

Police nab 12 over death of Arise TV reporter

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested 12 notorious armed robbers believed to be responsible for the death of an Arise TV staff, Ms. Somtochukwu Christella Maduagwu, and a security guard, Mr. Barnabas Danlami.

The incident occurred during a robbery incident at Unique Apartment, Gishiri Village, Katampe District, Abuja.

Recall, President Bola Tinubu directed security agencies to fish out the killers.

According to a police internal report sighted by our correspondent, it was gathered that the suspects, arrested by operatives of the Scorpion Squad led by ACP Victor O. Godfrey, were tracked through actionable digital and reconstructive intelligence, following a directive by the Commissioner of Police, FCT, to fish out the culprits.

The robbery occurred on September 29, at about 3:30 a.m.

The arrested suspects include: Shamsudeen Hassan, from Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State; Hassan Isah, 22, from Zaria, Kaduna State; Abubakar Alkamu (a.k.a. Abba), 27, from Musawa LGA, Katsina State; Sani Sirajo (a.k.a. Dan Borume), 20, from Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State; Mashkur Jamili (a.k.a. Abba), 28, from Igabi LGA, Kaduna State; Suleiman Badamasi (a.k.a. Dan-Sule), 21, from Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State; Abdulsalam Saleh (a.k.a. Na-Durudu), from Katsina LGA, Katsina State; Zaharadeen Muhammad (a.k.a. Gwaska), 23, from Chikun LGA, Kaduna State and Musa Adamu (a.k.a. Musa Hassan), 30, from Malumfashi LGA, Katsina State.

Others are Sumayya Mohammed (a.k.a. Baby), 27, from Sammaka LGA, Kaduna State; Isah Abdulrahman (a.k.a. Abbati), 25, from Zaria LGA, Kaduna State; and Musa Umar (a.k.a. Small), 31, from Maiduguri LGA, Borno State.

Police sources said four of the suspects Shamsudeen, Hassan, Alkamu and Sirajo were initially apprehended shortly after the robbery and confessed to their involvement.

During interrogation, police said Shamsudeen admitted shooting the security guard, Barnabas Danlami, when he tried to stop them from entering the premises, while Sirajo confessed that he tried to hold Maduagwu as she fell from the third floor but was overwhelmed by her weight.

Shamsudeen further confessed that he drove away the victims’ white Honda CR-V after the operation.

The suspects revealed that they each received N200,000 from the proceeds of the crime.

Recovered exhibits from the gang include one fabricated AK-47 rifle, 36 rounds of 9mm live ammunition, one locally-made pistol, one pump-action gun, two live cartridges, four mobile phones, two sharp knives, one cutlass, and nine torchlights used during the operation.

The police said further arrests were made on October 8, when operatives acting on intelligence intercepted three of the gang members including Musa Umar and Hassan Isah while on their way to another planned armed robbery operation in Maitama.

The report said all the suspects are in custody and have reportedly confessed to the crimes.

Sources said that Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, commended the Scorpion Squad for their swift action and assured residents that the command would sustain its aggressive operations to rid the FCT of violent criminals.

Residents of Abuja, police advised to be vigilant and report any suspicious incident.

When contacted to confirm the report, the Federal Capital Territory (FTC) Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, said she is yet to confirm the report, adding that she will react soon.

Greenwich Merchant Bank attains N50b new capital base

Greenwich Merchant Bank has attained the new minimum capital base of N50 billion for its business category in a major achievement that placed the wholesale bank as one of the most proactive banks.

By virtue of a letter dated September 22, 2025, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) affirmed its approval of Greenwich Merchant Bank’s N22.6 billion new capital injections, putting the bank’s regulatory capital above N50 billion mandated for merchant banks.

Greenwich had raised new equity capital through highly successful rights issue and private placement. The bank’s offers were oversubscribed.

Chairman, Greenwich Group, Mr. Kayode Falowo, said the successful recapitalisation of the bank has set it apart as one of the most forward-looking banks, describing the achievement as a milestone.

He explained that the additional capital has significantly enhanced Greenwich’s financial strength, enabling the bank to underwrite larger transactions, offer more competitive financing terms, and improve overall service delivery.

According to him, in the years ahead, customers will benefit from increased access to bespoke banking and financing solutions, while investors can expect improved returns driven by expanded deal flow, enhanced market positioning, and long-term value creation.

He said: ‘This is a significant milestone in our growth journey and a strong testament to the resilience and commitment of everyone across the organization. It positions us strategically for the next phase of our expansion and service delivery.

‘We would like to thank our shareholders for their trust in us and applaud the outstanding contributions of our Board and Management in attaining this milestone. We are committed to driving even greater achievements in the future’.

Managing Director, Greenwich Merchant Bank, Mr. Benson Ogundeji, said the successful capital raise was not just a regulatory compliance milestone; but also a proof of the confidence shareholders place in the bank’s vision.

He added that the recapitalisation also reflected the trust that clients and partners have built with the bank over the years.

‘At Greenwich, we see this achievement as a springboard for strengthening our capacity to deliver innovative financial solutions while contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth and stability,’ Ogundeji said.

He noted that the milestone comes at a critical time for the Nigerian financial system as banks across the country step up capitalisation efforts to enhance stability, protect stakeholders, and deepen the resilience of the sector.

He said: ‘Greenwich’s achievement reinforces its position as a trusted financial partner capable of supporting clients through evolving market dynamics and creating long-term value for stakeholders.

‘Greenwich will deploy the enhanced capital strategically to drive technological innovation, broaden product offerings, and enhance its brand positioning. Plans are underway to launch a suite of innovative financial products tailored to evolving client needs, including digital investment platforms, SME-focused lending solutions, sustainable finance instruments, enhanced wealth management services, and strategic partnerships that would unlock new growth frontiers’.

President, Association for the Advancement of Rights of Nigerian Shareholders (AARNS), Dr Faruk Umar, said the successful recapitalisation underscored the calibre of the board and management of the bank.

Umar pointed out the financial strength of Greenwich, noting that alongside its robust loan portfolios, the bank has zero non-performing loan.

He said the group has secured a holding company license with plans underway to scale up its operations as a regional bank.

Greenwich Merchant Bank, formerly Greenwich Trust Limited, was established in February 1992, it converted to a Merchant Bank in September 2020.

The management of the bank stated that building relationships is at the core of its business approach.

‘As a full-service merchant bank, we provide integrated solutions across corporate banking, private banking, investment banking, treasury, asset management, and securities. Combining deep industry expertise with advanced technology, we deliver tailored services in capital raising, advisory, trading, portfolio management, and risk management, supporting clients with strategic, efficient, and enduring financial solutions,’ the bank stated.

?Alumni urge govt to negotiation with unions

Association of Nigerian Universities Alumni (ANUA) has urged the Federal Government to prioritise negotiations with university-based unions and ensure lasting peace in the sector.

The association warned of an impending crisis across the nation’s universities, calling for immediate government intervention to avert another disruptive industrial action.

ANUA National President, Professor Yakubu Ochefu, who spoke at the association’s first major national conference in Bauchi since its historic 2024 merger, stressed the gravity of the situation.

‘Nigeria’s academic calendar cannot afford another disruption,’ he stated.

‘We call on the Federal Government to prioritise negotiations with university-based unions and ensure lasting peace in the sector,’ Ochefu added.

The event, held from October 1-4 at Sa’adu Zungur University, brought together delegates from 36 member associations representing all six geopolitical zones.

The conference signaled a fundamental shift in the role of alumni, resolving that members must move from being ‘passive observers to active partners’ in revitalising Nigeria’s university system.

During the conference, the association demanded an urgent amendment of university laws to grant statutory representation to Alumni Association Presidents on University Governing Councils.

‘This is to ensure alumni experience is formally integrated into university decision-making,’ the association said.

The association noted with ‘grave concern the systemic challenges’ of chronic underfunding, decaying infrastructure, and inadequate carrying capacity that are jeopardising the nation’s human capital development.

It also resolved to convene a National Education Summit in 2026 to bring together all stakeholders, including policymakers, administrators, the private sector, and civil society, to create a roadmap for 21st-century university education in Nigeria.

While commending the Federal Government for the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) , ANUA recommended a continuous review of its framework for wider accessibility.

It also called on State and Local Governments to institute robust scholarship and bursary schemes.

MKO Abiola’s daughter Rinsola honoured for exemplary leadership

Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), Hon. Rinsola Abiola, has been honoured for exemplary leadership at the 2025 Nigeria’s Pride Awards held on September 30 at Barcelona Hotel, Abuja.

The daughter of MKO Abiola, who received the Exemplary Young Corporate CEO of the Year Award, was celebrated for her outstanding leadership, reforms at the CLTC, and her consistent advocacy for youth and women’s inclusion in governance.

The organisers, First Green White Resources (FGWR), publishers of African Leadership Scorecard Magazine and Nationwide Reports, said the recognition was a tribute to her ‘innovative leadership style, passion for human development, and commitment to rebuilding the culture of citizenship and national service among Nigerian youths.’

They added that under her watch, the CLTC has regained national relevance through training, empowerment, and civic education initiatives that align with its founding vision of producing responsible citizens and effective community leaders.

A citation read at the event described Hon. Rinsola Abiola as ‘a young and visionary public servant whose rise in leadership is defined by merit, professionalism, and genuine commitment to national development.’

It noted that while her late father, Chief MKO Abiola, remains an icon of democracy, Rinsola’s growing leadership record stands firmly on her own achievements.

‘Before her current role, she worked at the intersection of politics and civil society to promote civic education, political literacy, and the inclusion of marginalised groups in governance. She also served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership,’ the citation read.

A certified public relations professional, Rinsola holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Statistics and a Diploma in Public Relations, with global exposure through the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program, as well as study tours sponsored by the Swedish Embassy and the Westminster Foundation.

Abiola is also the Founder of the Progressive Sisters’ Network (PSN) – a grassroots women’s organisation active across all 36 states and the FCT – which she established to promote women’s participation in politics and governance.

Through her Derinsola Abiola Foundation, she provides scholarships and empowerment opportunities for young people, particularly in Ogun State.

These initiatives, according to the organisers, reflect her ‘deep commitment to leadership development and her belief that empowering women and youths is key to Nigeria’s progress.’

The Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, founded in 1951, is Nigeria’s foremost institution for developing responsible citizens and effective leaders. With the motto Build the Man, Build the Community, the Centre has trained thousands of Nigerians who have gone on to become presidents, ministers, governors, lawmakers, and professionals in various fields.

Under Rinsola Abiola’s leadership, the Centre also received the Meritorious Long-Service Award on Human Development at the same event, in recognition of its continued relevance in national reorientation, empowerment, and leadership training.

The Nigeria’s Pride Awards, chaired by Gen. Paul Boroh (Rtd), former Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta and Coordinator of the Amnesty Programme, also honoured several distinguished Nigerians and organisations including Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, Dangote Group, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, and Nollywood stars Tonto Dikeh and Empress Njamah.

In his address, Gen. Boroh commended Rinsola Abiola and other awardees for their contributions to national growth, describing the initiative as ‘a platform to reward service, patriotism, and positive impact.’

Speaking on behalf of the organisers, FGWR’s Founder and CEO, Bonaventure Phillips Melah, said the awards were created to identify and celebrate Nigerians who inspire excellence and contribute to unity and national development.

He said: ‘Hon. Rinsola Abiola represents a generation of young leaders proving that integrity, service, and vision are still possible in public office. Nigeria needs to celebrate such examples.’

The virus of fake certificates

Sir: Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, the nation has been tainted by a persistent and shameful trend of ministers, legislators, and other public officials occupying high offices with fake or forged academic certificates and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) documents. This disturbing phenomenon has systematically eroded public trust in governance and exposed significant institutional weaknesses within Nigeria’s security agencies, legislative screening committees, and other bodies charged with vetting public servants.

The recent high-profile resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Barth Nnaji, who was forced to step down following credible revelations that he submitted forged certificates, has once again brought this ugly issue to the forefront of national discourse. His case is far from unique but rather a continuation of a long saga of fraudulent practices among public officials that have for decades undermined the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Central to this ongoing crisis is the inability or unwillingness of the Department of State Security Services (DSS), the National Assembly’s screening committees, and other vetting authorities to perform thorough and impartial background checks. The case of Barth Nnaji painfully demonstrates institutional gaps that allow individuals with forged credentials to slip through official scrutiny. Despite the availability of digital academic records and warning letters questioning his credentials, Nnaji’s documents passed the screening stages, and he served in government before journalists exposed the inconsistencies. This failure reflects systemic weaknesses ranging from incompetence, possible complicity, to political shielding, severely compromising the effectiveness of checks designed to safeguard public trust.

Moreover, the response to the exposure of such cases has been characterized by a disturbing norm often referred to as the ‘bow and go’ culture. Instead of mounting legal challenges, prosecuting offenders, or imposing lifetime bans, the typical approach has been a quiet resignation followed by an eventual political comeback or continued impunity. This practice not only diminishes public confidence but also reinforces the idea that evidence of forgery does not constitute grounds for serious or lasting consequences in Nigerian public life. Such impunity emboldens future aspirants to use forged credentials as an expedient means to power, confident that they will ultimately escape stringent punishment.

In looking outward for potential solutions, Nigeria can and must learn from other nations that have confronted similar challenges decisively. In South Africa, a centralized, technologically driven verification system ensures that all government nominees are thoroughly vetted for academic credentials before approval. Legal provisions in India harshly punish those who submit fake certificates for public office, with expedited prosecution measures that act as a strong deterrent. Even some Western democracies employ background checks backed by transparency and public accountability frameworks that expose fraud swiftly and impose lasting sanctions.

For Nigeria, the imperative now is to institutionalize such mechanisms. The DSS and relevant screening committees must be provided with access to real-time verification databases from academic institutions and the NYSC headquarters. Legislative hearings need to prioritize transparency, with findings made public and offenders prosecuted regardless of their political stature or connections. Whistle-blower protections must be enhanced to encourage insiders to expose fraudsters without fear of reprisal. Additionally, a dedicated ethics commission or anti-corruption body should be established to oversee and monitor public office holders for any breaches of integrity, producing regular reports and sanctions.

Nigeria’s democracy demands more than scandal-ridden resignations; it requires robust verification processes, uncompromising accountability, and transparent governance to restore public faith and ensure that holders of public office earn their positions through merit and honesty, not deception. The time for complacency and ‘bow and go’ is over. For Nigeria to truly progress, the government must act with resolve to purge its ranks of fraudsters and affirm that integrity is non-negotiable in public service.