Mr. Yisa Usman, a former deputy director of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has vowed to expose corruption in the organization, despite facing threats and intimidation. He made this statement during his cross-examination at the National Industrial Court in Abuja, where he is challenging his dismissal from the board.
While answering questions from JAMB’s lawyer, A.A. Owonikoko, Usman confirmed that he had written petitions to several government agencies, accusing JAMB of corruption. He admitted receiving queries from the board and being invited to appear before a disciplinary committee before his termination. He also acknowledged that he responded to the queries and protested the composition of the committee.
Owonikoko referred to an email dated May 18, 2023, which Usman wrote in response to the disciplinary committee’s invitation. Reading the email in court, Usman stated:
“Dear Directors, this is a follow-up to the queries issued to me. I received an invitation on May 16, 2023, to appear before the Disciplinary Committee. Attached is my response.
“This situation strengthens my resolve to pursue justice and fight against corruption within our organization over the past six to seven years. These corrupt acts, which I mentioned in my letter, are hidden behind the remittances made to the government.
“While my colleagues are being invited to promotional exams for director positions, I am called before a disciplinary committee. However, I am not discouraged because I believe only God promotes.
“I remain determined to fight corruption and abuse of authority, which is every Nigerian’s duty. Justice will prevail, no matter how long it takes. Thank you.”
Usman explained that he submitted a hard copy of his reply to his immediate supervisor and also emailed it to the directors to ensure they were informed. When Owonikoko suggested the email was unrelated to the disciplinary committee’s subject, Usman disagreed, stating it was connected.
He also admitted to writing several petitions against JAMB, including allegations of financial misconduct under the current Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, which he submitted to investigative agencies and the National Assembly.
