“Workers at Bida allege ₦1.1 billion meant for salaries and arrears is being diverted to controversial supplier claims, raising calls for urgent investigation.”
Bida, Niger State – Staff members of Federal Polytechnic Bida have accused the institution’s management of allegedly planning to divert ₦1.1 billion meant for personnel funds to pay controversial supplier claims, sparking outrage among workers.
Staff Raise Alarm Over Mismanagement of Personnel Funds
According to staff who spoke to Sahara Reporters, the ₦1.1 billion is intended to clear multiple staff arrears, including:
- Promotion arrears from 2017, 2024, and 2025
- Outstanding salary payments omitted in previous disbursements
- 25% and 35% salary increment arrears spanning the past year
The staff allege that management intends to allocate a portion of the fund to insiders, leaving a smaller share for actual personnel payments, while settling claims linked to previous supplier contracts.
Calls for Investigation
Workers have demanded that anti-corruption agencies investigate the alleged diversion of funds, warning that failure to act could erode staff trust and further delay the payment of owed entitlements.
Management Yet to Respond
Efforts to reach the polytechnic’s management, including Rector Dr. Baba Aliyu, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
The Bigger Picture
The allegations come amid long-standing complaints over unpaid entitlements at Nigerian polytechnics, highlighting systemic issues in fund management and accountability within tertiary institutions.
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