In a shocking revelation, concerned staff members of the National Metallurgical Development Centre (NMDC) in Jos have penned a petition addressing the Honourable Minister of Mines and Steel Development. The petition highlights allegations of embezzlement, misappropriation, diversion of public funds, and gross violations of public service rules at the NMDC under the leadership of Professor Linus Okon Asuquo, the Director General and Chief Executive.
The petition, written in the interest of the public and in line with the government's zero-tolerance policy on corruption, aims to shed light on the alarming state of affairs at the NMDC. When Professor Asuquo assumed his role in July 2018, the Centre was on the cusp of significant breakthroughs with two major projects aimed at jump-starting value addition in the mineral and metal sectors. However, the situation has deteriorated rapidly, with none of the equipment or facilities in the Centre currently functioning.
According to the petition, not a single research work has been carried out in the last five years, despite substantial government investment. Reports from the Statutory Monitoring and Supervision of the NMDC indicate that achievements in the Centre are primarily from past research works, with no new accomplishments in recent years. The report also points out the misappropriation and fraudulent award of contracts, with procurement processes being disregarded.
The petition further alleges that funds meant for capital development projects have been siphoned through multiple methods, including making payments for projects not executed, paying for old projects from current capital releases, and inflating contract sums. These actions have severely crippled the capacity of the NMDC to fulfill its role in driving value addition solutions and conducting research work.
The concerned staff members are calling for immediate action to be taken by the Ministry and relevant authorities. They urge a thorough investigation into the infractions and appropriate sanctions for those involved. Furthermore, they request that Professor Asuquo not be re-appointed as the DG/CE of NMDC due to his alleged lack of capacity and involvement in corrupt practices.
The petition includes supporting documents, such as summaries of payments and contract award letters, to provide evidence of the fraudulent practices.
It is now up to the Ministry and relevant authorities to investigate these allegations and take the necessary actions to address the situation at the NMDC. The outcome of this investigation will not only have significant implications for the Centre but will also serve as a deterrent against similar actions from public and civil servants in the future.
