N19.7M Fraud: Former Federal Varsity VC Dragged to Court Over Contract Bribes

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially hauled the former Vice Chancellor of Federal University Dutsinma (FUDMA), Professor Armayau Bichi, before a Katsina State High Court.

The Professor isn’t standing alone; he was arraigned on Thursday, February 5, 2026, alongside two alleged accomplices, Lawal Mani and Aliyu Jari, in a scandal that has rocked the academic community.

According to the EFCC, Professor Bichi allegedly used his position to solicit and receive bribes totaling N19.7 million. The commission claims these payments were “rewards” for awarding lucrative contracts, including the supply of medical equipment and the furnishing of university laboratories.

One specific charge highlights a N5 million bribe allegedly paid by a contractor directly into a bank account belonging to the third defendant, Aliyu Jari, acting on the Professor’s instructions.

Despite the heavy evidence presented by the prosecution, the trio pleaded “Not Guilty” to the five-count charge. Their legal team fought hard for their freedom, moving bail applications immediately after the charges were read.

Justice Musa Abubakar, presiding over the case, granted the former VC and his co-defendants bail in the sum of N5 million each, with one surety in like sum.

However, they aren’t off the hook yet. The court has officially adjourned the matter to March 12, 2026, when the full trial is expected to commence. The EFCC has already signaled that it is ready to “assemble witnesses” to prove the corruption allegations.