Tensions are rising at the Federal College of Education in Eha-Amufu, Enugu State, as a government investigative committee fails to release its report regarding a mysterious fire that occurred in March 2026.
The blaze razed the Centre for Educational Technology, which contained the procurement unit, examinations department, and academic records.
Staff members and various stakeholders believe the fire was a deliberate act of arson intended to destroy evidence of financial mismanagement and corruption. Despite the committee concluding its inquiry weeks ago, the findings remain suppressed. Academic staff, supported by the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) and civil society groups, are now threatening industrial action.
Insiders claim the Governing Council Chairman, Prince Melubari Akukue, and the Provost, Dr. Pauline Ikwuegbu, are intentionally withholding the report to protect themselves from scrutiny. Critics also question the impartiality of the panel, noting that it includes individuals perceived to be close allies of the Provost.
Eyewitnesses have cast doubt on the fire being accidental, pointing out that there was no power supply to the campus at the time, and the building was consumed while adjacent structures remained intact. Sources suggest the destruction targeted departments containing documents related to ongoing probes into the alleged diversion of over 300 million naira in government funds, including vehicle contracts and personal use of official property.
When reached for comment, Prince Akukue stated he was still awaiting the report, while attempts to contact Dr. Ikwuegbu were unsuccessful. The ongoing delay has fueled demands for federal anti-graft agencies, such as the EFCC and ICPC, to launch an independent, forensic investigation into both the fire and the broader allegations of institutional malpractice.
Union members remain firm in their stance, insisting that the truth must be uncovered and that those responsible for the destruction of college property be held to account.
