The Rivers State Government has ordered a thorough investigation into the Rivers State College of Nursing Sciences following allegations of widespread academic corruption, including a “cash-for-grades” scheme.
The probe has already led to the immediate suspension of a Head of Department implicated in the claims, which reportedly involve the illegal sale of exam papers, bribery for professional certifications, and extortion of students for project approvals.
Speaking on Monday, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, said the investigation was prompted by multiple petitions from students alleging systemic malpractice within the college.
She emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, noting that the integrity of the state’s healthcare training system is non-negotiable.
To ensure a transparent and impartial review, an investigative panel has been set up under the leadership of Professor Chizindu Alikor, Chief Medical Director of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital.
The panel has been tasked with conducting a forensic audit of the recently concluded Year Two examinations and reviewing the college’s financial and academic procedures.
Dr. Oreh confirmed that the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, along with relevant security agencies, have been formally notified and are collaborating on the investigation. The Ministry of Health also assured students that anyone providing credible information to the panel will be granted full protection and anonymity.
An acting Head of Department has been appointed to manage the affected unit while the investigation is ongoing. The Commissioner warned that anyone found culpable will face the full force of the law, stressing that extortion and academic fraud have no place in professional medical training.
