JOB RACKETEERING: Ondo Anti-Graft Agency Quizzes SUBEB, TESCOM Chiefs— Investigation to be as broad as possible, says Commission

The Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC) has interrogated key officials of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), including its Chairman, Victor Olabimtan, over allegations surrounding the sale of employment slots during the recently concluded recruitment of teachers in the state.

Confirming the development on Sunday, the Secretary of the Commission, Mr. Adewole Adeleye, said the officials had been released on bail after they were questioned and had submitted relevant documents.

“The chairman, permanent secretary, and directors of SUBEB have reported for investigation,” he said. “They have made statements and submitted relevant documents—same for TESCOM. Invited officials were released on bail and will be summoned as the investigation progresses.”

Adeleye noted that the probe, which also involves top personnel from the state’s Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), was prompted by several complaints from job applicants alleging they were asked to pay between ₦200,000 and ₦750,000 to secure teaching jobs.

Findings revealed that 1,100 teachers were listed for employment by the state government to fill vacancies in public primary schools. The exercise was conducted by SUBEB and approved by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.

However, the process has come under scrutiny following widespread allegations of bribery and job racketeering. Community leaders, parents, and concerned citizens have since demanded an open and thorough investigation.

In response, SPFACC has vowed to broaden the scope of its inquiry to ensure accountability and transparency.

“The scope of the investigation will be kept as wide as possible,” Adeleye assured.

He also urged affected individuals to come forward with useful evidence, promising that the Commission would offer them adequate protection and guidance throughout the process.

“We are expecting them to submit evidence, and we will guide and protect them professionally,” he added.

The development has stirred reactions across the state, with many calling for reforms to sanitize recruitment into the public service sector.