BREAKING: Reps Grant 10-Year Security Cover To Journalist Who Exposed Certificate Racketeering Ring

The House of Representatives has approved a 10-year security protection for investigative journalist Umar Audu, in recognition of his bold exposé uncovering rampant certificate racketeering linked to degree mills in the Benin Republic.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Audu’s undercover report revealed a fraudulent network that sells illegitimate university degrees to Nigerians—many of which are later validated by government bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Education.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a joint investigation is currently underway by the House Committees on Universities, Polytechnics, Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Youth Development to address the scandal.

Committee Chairman, Rep. Abubakar Fulata, confirmed the House’s decision, directing the Nigeria Police Force and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to ensure the journalist’s safety for the next ten years.

“We appreciate Mr. Audu’s bravery. We call on the Ministry of Interior and all relevant agencies to provide full protective support,” Fulata stated.

During his appearance before the committee, Audu narrated how he was able to secure a degree from a Beninese university without attending lectures—and had it officially recognized by the Ministry of Education for a payment of ₦40,000.

In response, Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo called for the creation of a centralized, automated system for educational verification to permanently eliminate such fraudulent practices.

“This incident predates the current administration. However, a unified platform is necessary to prevent these systemic failures,” he said, while also apologizing to Nigerians.

Representing Education Minister Mr. Olatunji Alausa, Director Mrs. Larai Ahmed revealed that the department involved in clearing Audu’s certificate has been restructured, with tougher protocols now in place.

Also speaking, NYSC Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, disclosed that the corps now employs biometric screening to verify certificates of prospective corps members.

“We regret this breach and are working with other agencies to tighten our processes. New reforms have been launched to ensure this doesn’t happen again,” Nafiu assured.

The committee reaffirmed its commitment to completing a thorough probe and implementing reforms to protect the credibility of Nigeria’s education system and public service institutions.