NITR Stands Firm Against N391m Fraud Claims, Upholding Leadership Integrity
The Nigerian Institute for Trypanosomiasis Research (NITR) has denied allegations of financial impropriety totaling N391 million, characterizing the report as incorrect, unsubstantiated, and deceptive.
In an official announcement from the Public Relations Unit, the institute supported its Director-General/CEO, Dr. Joachim Joseph Ajakaiye, along with the management team, asserting that all financial and administrative procedures strictly comply with government policies.
The acting Head of Public Relations, Mrs. Malvis O. Ogenyi, dismissed claims that the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) had been tampered with, clarifying that the system is closely monitored by various government entities, rendering unauthorized manipulation improbable.
NITR noted that the cited N391 million fraud accusation was referenced out of context and misrepresented, affirming that its financial transactions are consistently overseen by regulatory bodies, including the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation and the Auditor-General.
The institute also rejected assertions linking its chief executive to any illicit activity, emphasizing that no court has found Dr. Ajakaiye culpable of financial impropriety. It elaborated that a mentioned police case was unrelated to fiscal matters and was ultimately dismissed by the court due to lack of merit.
Regarding accusations of leadership irregularities, NITR characterized them as administrative matters arising during a transitional phase. It remarked that all measures undertaken aimed to ensure stability and continuity within the organization.
Other allegations, such as fictitious travel reimbursements, exaggerated fuel costs, and purported “kick-and-share” schemes, were characterized as conjectural and rooted in anonymous sources, as the institute reiterated that its financial documents are subject to both internal and external scrutiny.
NITR further refuted claims of employee harassment, union interference, identity fraud, and procurement violations, labeling them as unfounded and slanderous, and maintained that staff assignments and remunerations are conducted per civil service protocols.
The institute criticized the report for depending on unnamed sources and for not seeking its input prior to publication, asserting that such practices compromise fair and impartial journalism.
Reaffirming its dedication to transparency, NITR invited stakeholders and journalists to visit its facilities and engage directly with its leadership. The institute urged the public to dismiss unverified assertions and remain confident in its mission to combat trypanosomiasis and enhance public health.
