UNIVERSITY OF PORT HARCOURT
CHOBA
PRESS RELEASE
REBUTTAL TO ALLEGATIONS OF FINANCIAL MISCONDUCT AND ABUSE OF OFFICE
Our attention has been drawn to a recent publication making unfounded allegations against the Chairman of the Governing Council, University of Port Harcourt, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, PhD. These claims, reportedly contained in a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), are false, misleading, and aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the Governing Council and its leadership.
1. Abuse of Office and Financial Misconduct
The Chairman has always acted within the limits of his authority under the laws establishing the University of Port Harcourt, in strict adherence to financial regulations. All decisions of the Governing Council are taken collectively, following due deliberation and statutory procedures.
2. Procurement of Vehicles
The acquisition of vehicles followed full compliance with the Public Procurement Act. The first advertisement for bids was placed on 14th April 2025. Due to an unsatisfactory response, a second advertisement was placed on 12th May 2025 in two national newspapers and the Federal Tenders Journal, to ensure transparency and wide participation.
Bids underwent technical and financial evaluations, as well as due diligence checks, as they were publicly tendered. Two qualified bidders emerged through this rigorous process, and contracts were awarded strictly on merit.
For the avoidance of doubt, LANRE SHITTU MOTORS and METROPOLITAN MOTORS LIMITED are the companies that were awarded the contract for the supply of vehicles. These are reputable names in the automobile sector in Nigeria.
All vehicles procured were brand new, and no second-hand vehicles were passed off as new. All procured vehicles met the specifications and were inspected before acceptance.
3. Tender Committee and Bid Rigging Allegations
The Tender Committee operated transparently, following statutory guidelines. All members endorsed the process. There was no manipulation, interference, or irregularity in the outcome.
4. Misappropriation of Funds
No public funds have been misappropriated under the current Governing Council leadership. All funds are managed according to approved budgets, financial regulations, and council resolutions, and are subject to both internal and external audits.
5. The EFCC Petition
While any citizen has the right to petition investigative bodies, it is improper to circulate unverified claims in public before any investigation concludes. The Governing Council will cooperate fully with the EFCC and provide all relevant documentation to confirm that due process was followed in all activities.
The University of Port Harcourt Governing Council remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the highest standards of public service. We urge the public to disregard these politically motivated allegations and be assured of our dedication to the University’s progress.
Signed:
Dr. Sam KPENU
Head, Information, Publications & Public Relations
07/08/2025
