The Zamfara State Government has inaugurated an eight-member investigation panel to probe the allegations of gross administrative misconduct and insubordination against the suspended Rector of Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Talata Mafara, Dr Sirajo Abdullahi Shinkafi.
The Secretary to the Zamfara State Government (SSG), Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada, inaugurated the committee on Monday in Gusau, the state capital. The panel is headed by the former Head of Service, Mujtaba Isah.
Inaugurating the panel, Mr Nakwada charged them to ensure fairness and establish facts, while not presuming any party as guilty or innocent.
“Your responsibility is not to presume guilt or innocent, but to establish the facts objectively. You are expected to accord all parties a fair hearing, examine all relevant evidence, and submit recommendations that are impartial, well-reasoned, and consistent with the law and principles of good governance,” the SSG stated.
He also emphasised that beyond investigating the allegations, the government would also rely on the findings of the panel to strengthen the governance structure of the polytechnic and other tertiary institutions across the state.
“The government expects the panel to identify any institutional gaps and recommend practical measures that will strengthen governance, discipline, accountability, and administrative efficiency within the polytechnic as well as other state-owned tertiary institutions,” he added.
The SSG further directed all individuals and institutions concerned to fully cooperate with the panel by providing all necessary information required for the success of the assignment.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the panel, Mr Mujtaba Isah, thanked Governor Dauda Lawal for finding them worthy for the task, assuring that they would discharge their assignment in the best interest of the state.
“We are mindful that this assignment requires experience and moral rectitude, given that it involves the head of a critical institution.
“We will therefore tread carefully and assure His Excellency that whatever decision we take will be in the best interest of the state.
“We will be just, fair, and leave no stone unturned in the discharge of this assignment,” the Chairman of the panel affirmed.
