Sacked JAMB Deputy Director Vows to Expose Corruption, Fights Dismissal in Court

A former deputy director at the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Mr. Yisa Usman, has pledged to reveal alleged corruption within the board despite facing threats and intimidation. Usman made this assertion during a cross-examination before Justice Osatohanmwen Obaseki-Osaghae at the National Industrial Court, Abuja, as he challenges his dismissal by JAMB.

Usman, who described his termination as unlawful, admitted writing petitions to various government agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the National Assembly, alleging financial infractions and abuse of authority under JAMB’s current leadership.

The former deputy director also told the court that he refused to appear before JAMB’s Directorate Staff Disciplinary Committee, citing bias in its composition. “The committee members were complicit in the infractions I reported, and I doubted I could receive a fair hearing,” Usman said.

In response to the dismissal letter referencing his refusal to appear, Usman clarified that his objection was based on procedural irregularities and a lack of confidence in the committee. He maintained that his actions were in line with his commitment to exposing malpractice.

During cross-examination, JAMB’s counsel, A.A. Owonikoko, highlighted Usman’s email correspondence, where he reaffirmed his determination to pursue justice. In one email dated May 18, 2023, Usman declared, “The fight against corruption is the responsibility of every Nigerian. The threat of dismissal or harm will not deter me.”

The claimant also denied allegations that his criminal charges at the Federal High Court stemmed from unsubstantiated claims against JAMB. He argued that the charges were unrelated to the investigative efforts initiated by JAMB’s leadership.

In his lawsuit, Usman seeks N150 million in damages and nine reliefs, including the nullification of his dismissal and reinstatement with full entitlements. He also prays for the court to declare the disciplinary committee’s constitution illegal for non-compliance with JAMB’s staff manual.

Justice Obaseki-Osaghae admitted Usman’s evidence and adjourned the matter until Feb. 27, 2025, for the defense to present its case.

Usman’s legal battle continues as he insists that justice must prevail in uncovering the alleged corrupt practices he claims have plagued JAMB.