FCE Enugu Management Accused of Withholding Arson Report to Conceal Evidence of Financial Misconduct

Staff at FCE Eha-Amufu accuse management of arson to destroy procurement records as the report on a mysterious March fire remains delayed for weeks.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 17, 2026, 9:38 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from SaharaReporters

Suspicions of Arson Amid Institutional Corruption Probes

A deep sense of unease has settled over the Federal College of Education, Eha-Amufu, following a mysterious inferno on March 3 that leveled the Centre for Educational Technology. The building was a critical hub, housing the procurement unit, examinations and records departments, and the governing council chambers. Internal sources suggest the timing and circumstances of the blaze are highly suspicious, particularly as the college reportedly had no electricity supply at the time of the incident. There are growing concerns among staff that the destruction was not accidental, but a calculated attempt to erase documentary evidence related to petitions currently before national anti-graft agencies.

Delays in Releasing Investigative Findings

Despite the constitution of an investigative panel tasked with uncovering the cause of the fire, the results remain hidden from public view weeks after the 21 day deadline for submission. Senior officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, have accused the Provost, Dr. Pauline Ikwuegbu, and the Chairman of the Governing Council, Prince Melubari Akukue, of sitting on the completed report. These staff members claim the findings are unfavorable to the management, leading to a deliberate administrative stalemate. The delay has now exceeded 40 days, prompting calls for transparency from academic unions and civil society organizations.

Allegations of Panel Bias and Lack of Independence

The credibility of the investigative process has been sharply questioned by the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union. Critics point out that the committee is allegedly populated by close allies of the Provost, including a deputy provost whose appointment was previously rejected by the staff. This perceived lack of independence has fueled fears that the investigation was designed to facilitate a whitewash rather than a genuine inquiry. Union members have warned of impending industrial action if the management continues to withhold the report, emphasizing that accountability for the loss of vital institutional assets is non-negotiable.