Why Rivers State Government Ordered Probe Into College of Nursing Results, Alleged Corrupt Practices

The Rivers State Government has ordered a full-scale investigation into the Rivers State College of Nursing Sciences following serious allegations of systemic academic corruption, including a suspected “cash-for-grades” racket that allegedly compromised examination results and professional standards.

The probe, which has already led to the suspension of a Head of Department, was triggered by multiple petitions from students accusing some officials of selling examination questions, demanding bribes for pass marks and professional certifications, and extorting students for project supervision and approvals.

Petitions, Student Complaints Triggered Government Action
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, disclosed on Monday in Port Harcourt that the government acted after receiving consistent and credible complaints pointing to widespread malpractice within the institution.

According to her, the allegations suggested not isolated misconduct but a coordinated system capable of undermining the credibility of nursing education in the state.

“We operate a zero-tolerance policy for corruption. The integrity of healthcare training cannot and will not be compromised,” Oreh said.

Forensic Audit of Exams and Institutional Processes
To ensure transparency and independence, the Rivers State Government constituted an investigative panel chaired by Professor Chizindu Alikor, Chief Medical Director of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital.

The panel’s mandate includes:
A forensic audit of the recently concluded Year Two examinations.

A comprehensive review of the college’s academic and financial processes
Identification of staff, intermediaries, or external collaborators involved in extortion or result manipulation.

Professional Bodies, Security Agencies Involved
Dr. Oreh confirmed that the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has been formally notified, alongside relevant security agencies, to ensure professional accountability and possible criminal prosecution where necessary.

This collaboration signals the government’s intention to go beyond administrative sanctions if the allegations are substantiated.

Whistleblower Protection for Students
In a bid to uncover the full scope of the alleged corruption, the Ministry of Health assured students and staff of full protection and anonymity for whistleblowers who provide credible evidence to the panel.

Officials say this measure is critical in dismantling entrenched networks of academic exploitation often sustained by fear and intimidation.

Interim Measures Implemented
Pending the outcome of the investigation:
The implicated Head of Department has been suspended. An acting Head of Department has been appointed to maintain academic stability. Monitoring of examination and grading procedures has been intensified.

Government Vows Full Sanctions
The Health Commissioner warned that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law, stressing that extortion, bribery, and academic fraud have no place in professional medical training.

The outcome of the probe is expected to determine disciplinary actions, possible prosecutions, and reforms aimed at restoring public confidence in the institution.