Mr. Yisa Usman, a former deputy director of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has pledged to expose alleged corruption within the board, despite facing what he describes as threats and intimidation. Usman made this assertion during his testimony at the National Industrial Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Osatohanmwen Obaseki-Osaghae.
Usman is contesting his dismissal from JAMB, claiming it was unlawful and part of efforts to silence his allegations of corruption within the organization. While being cross-examined by JAMB’s counsel, A. A. Owonikoko, Usman admitted to writing petitions to various government agencies, including the National Assembly, accusing JAMB of financial infractions under its current Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede.
Determination to Fight Corruption
During the court proceedings, Usman read an email he had sent to JAMB directors on May 18, 2023, in response to a disciplinary committee invitation. In the email, he reiterated his commitment to exposing corruption in JAMB, stating:
“This new development only renews my determination to continue with my quest for justice and my fight against the corrupt practices that characterise our organisation in the past six to seven years, perpetrated under the cover of the remittances made to the government.”
He expressed dissatisfaction with being summoned to appear before the disciplinary committee while his colleagues were invited to promotional examinations for substantive director roles. Despite this, Usman stated, “I am not deterred by this development, neither am I intimidated in any way. The fight against corruption and abuse of authority is the responsibility of every Nigerian.”
Allegations Against JAMB
The former deputy director revealed that he had received queries from JAMB and had been invited to appear before a disciplinary committee prior to his termination. He claimed to have submitted responses to the queries and a protest letter challenging the composition of the committee, as well as forwarded his concerns to all JAMB directors to ensure transparency.
“My Lord, the email was to communicate to the directors my response to the query issued to me,” Usman told the court, adding that his grievances included alleged financial misconduct by JAMB’s leadership over several years.
When JAMB’s counsel suggested that his email message was unrelated to the disciplinary issue, Usman insisted that the content of his email was relevant and highlighted the broader issues of corruption he sought to address.
Court Case Continues
Usman maintains that his dismissal was an attempt to suppress his allegations of corruption. He emphasized his resolve to pursue justice and expose malpractice within JAMB, stating, “The law will take its course, no matter how long it takes.”
The case continues, with Usman standing firm in his allegations and seeking redress for what he describes as an unfair dismissal. Meanwhile, JAMB has yet to issue an official statement addressing the specific claims made by its former employee.