…Commissioner for Health vows decisive action against those involved in alleged extortion scheme
OGOJA – The Cross River State Government has reacted strongly to allegations of illegal levies imposed on students of the Ogoja College of Nursing Sciences, describing the practice as a gross abuse of trust and a betrayal of government standards.
The outrage follows the circulation of a viral video on social media, which exposed a scheme of unauthorised financial extortion from students, supported by undeniable evidence of payments. The scandal has sparked widespread condemnation among parents, students, and the public, prompting urgent calls for intervention.
In a swift response on Saturday, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, issued a directive halting all illegal collections across state health institutions with immediate effect. He also ordered a full refund of all unjustified payments to affected students.
“Any institution engaged in these shameful acts must halt immediately and return all illegal collections to the victims,” Dr Ayuk stated, expressing deep anger over the revelations.
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The Health Commissioner further announced that a full panel of inquiry would be inaugurated by Monday to investigate the extent of the malpractice and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
“I assure you, whoever is found guilty will be dealt with decisively according to the laws of the land. This administration has zero tolerance for exploitation and corruption,” he warned.
Dr Ayuk emphasised that neither institutions nor individuals, regardless of status, would be protected from the consequences of their actions. He reiterated the Otu administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable groups.
“The education and future of our young people must not be sold to the highest bidder. Those who think they can defraud our students under this government are mistaken,” he added.
As of the time of filing this report, the management of the Ogoja College of Nursing Sciences had not issued any official statement regarding the allegations.
