Cross River Gov’t Investigates Alleged Illegal Sale of UNICROSS Assets
By Ebi COLLINS
The Cross River State Government has launched a formal investigation into the controversial auctioning of assets belonging to the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) by its former Governing Council members, following multiple petitions alleging a violation of procurement laws.
Reports indicate that between May and August 2024, approximately 400 items—including eight industrial generators, numerous vehicles, and other university properties—were allegedly sold off without due process. Among the auctioned items was a 500KVA generator installed in 2015 and a vehicle donated by the administration of former Governor Ben Ayade.
It is alleged that instead of following the Public Procurement Act, which requires public advertisement and competitive bidding, the sale was conducted through an internal circular, with some of the items allegedly acquired by members of the former Governing Council themselves.
Expressing concerns over these reports, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, stated:
“The Cross River State Government is deeply concerned about the manner in which these public assets were disposed of. There are serious allegations that this process was neither transparent nor in accordance with existing laws. As a result, His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, has ordered a full investigation.”
In a directive issued on March 19, 2025, the state government has ordered a comprehensive review of the transactions and has demanded the following within seven working days: A complete inventory of all auctioned assets; Copies of official approvals and Governing Council resolutions related to the sale; Auctioning guidelines and any public advertisements (if available); A list of buyers, including individuals and entities who acquired the items; and Proof of payment, receiving account details, total proceeds, and how the funds were utilized.
Barr. Agbor emphasized that the investigation is aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability, stating:
“Public assets are meant to serve the people, not to be secretly appropriated by a select few. If any wrongdoing is established, appropriate legal actions will be taken to recover the assets and hold those responsible accountable.”
As the deadline for submission of documents approaches, all eyes are now on the former Governing Council members, who are expected to provide explanations regarding the handling of university property. Stakeholders—including students, alumni, and concerned citizens—are closely watching to see government’s decisive action.
