Bauchi, Nigeria — In a bold move to restore transparency and accountability at Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Gadau, the Bauchi State Government has announced the dismissal of the university’s Acting Bursar, Ayuba Mohammed Gital, and the immediate constitution of an audit committee to probe the institution’s financial dealings.
Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed made the announcement on Tuesday while receiving the report of the recently constituted Visitation Panel at the Government House, Bauchi. The panel had been tasked with examining the root causes of prolonged industrial unrest and operational challenges plaguing the state-owned university.
The governor noted that despite the government’s previous hands-off approach to the institution’s financial management, recent findings had made it imperative to step in. He emphasized that all funds collected from students and other internal revenue sources would now be subjected to a full-scale audit.
“This government has always respected the autonomy of our academic institutions. However, given the alarming revelations in the panel’s report, we are left with no choice but to act swiftly to safeguard the integrity of Sa’adu Zungur University,” Governor Mohammed said.
The decision to sack the Acting Bursar, Ayuba Gital, follows alleged irregularities surrounding his appointment and financial practices under his tenure.
The governor praised the Visitation Panel for its comprehensive work, noting that its findings and recommendations would form the basis for wide-ranging reforms at the institution. He assured that the report would be submitted to the State Executive Council for urgent deliberation and implementation.
Presenting the report, the panel’s chairperson, Professor Gambo Laraba Abdullahi, disclosed that the committee had consulted a broad spectrum of stakeholders, received numerous memoranda, and conducted facility inspections across all three SAZU campuses.
Professor Abdullahi thanked the governor for the opportunity to serve and stressed the importance of following through with the panel’s recommendations to ensure the university regains stability and thrives academically.
“This report reflects the voices of the university community. Implementation is key to building a stronger, more transparent institution that serves the aspirations of Bauchi State,” she remarked.
The developments mark a significant step in the government’s ongoing efforts to reform the education sector in the state and reassure students, parents, and staff of its commitment to upholding standards of excellence and accountability.
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