The Rivers State Government has launched an investigation into allegations of a money-for-marks scandal at the state-owned College of Medical Sciences.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara ordered the probe following reports that some students paid lecturers to alter academic grades. The scandal reportedly involves multiple departments and has sparked outrage among parents, students, and the academic community.
The state Commissioner for Education, Professor Chinedu Mmom, said the government will not tolerate corruption in the education sector. “Governor Fubara has directed a full investigation to identify all those involved and ensure appropriate sanctions,” Mmom said.
A panel has been set up to review academic records and interview staff and students. The commissioner said the panel has been given a strict timeline and will submit its findings directly to the governor.
Sources within the institution allege that some students were asked to pay up to N100,000 to upgrade failing grades. Others claimed lecturers threatened students who refused to pay.
Student union leaders welcomed the government’s action, calling for transparency in the process. “This issue has affected the integrity of our college,” said one student representative. “We want justice for students who earned their grades the right way.”
The college management has yet to issue an official statement, but sources say some lecturers are already under internal review.
The investigation comes as part of broader efforts by the state government to reform the education sector and restore credibility to its institutions.
