INVESTIGATION REPORT: Unmasking the Corruption and Systemic Failure at the National Metallurgical Development Centre (NMDC), Jos

INTRODUCTION:

This report details the findings of an investigation into the National Metallurgical Development Centre (NMDC) in Jos, a public institution now grappling with severe allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and systemic failure.

The investigation was prompted by a series of events, including written complaints by staff of that institution and a massive protest that welcomed the permanent secretary ministry of mines and steel development by the staff, again, this report is based on a review of documents, video evidence, and direct communication with key individuals.

The findings reveal a complete breakdown of the institution’s core functions, leaving it in a state of disarray and threatening its very existence.

SUMMARY OF ALLEGATIONS:

The allegations against the leadership of the NMDC, particularly its Director-General (DG), Prof. Linus Asuquo, are widespread and include:

1. Financial Misappropriation: The diversion and embezzlement of public funds, with specific claims of over N2.5 billion being misappropriated since 2018.

1. Contractual Irregularities: The awarding of illegal contracts, bypassing due process and procurement laws, and paying “ghost companies.”
2. Failed Projects & Equipment: The purchase of non-functional or obsolete equipment, rendering laboratories and facilities useless despite massive financial outlays.
3. Abuse of Office & Staff Suppression: Intimidation, victimization, and suppression of staff who speak out against corruption, including demotions and redeployments.

The permanent secretary, Ministry of steel and Mineral Development. On site and inspection at the facility and the protesting staff

Systemic Breakdown: A complete collapse of the institution’s primary functions, including research, training, and the maintenance of equipment

INVESTIGATION FINDINGS

Financial and Procurement Fraud:

The investigation uncovered damning evidence of financial impropriety. A key example cited is the expenditure on an XRF (X-ray Fluorescence spectrometer) machine. Documents reveal that in 2019, N329 million was spent on this machine, which reportedly never worked for a single day. The same machine was allegedly supplied to another institution, rejected, and then smuggled into the NMDC, where it was declared “dead on arrival.”

The DG is also accused openly by the staff of signing contracts far above his financial limit of N2.5 million, with one instance showing an approval of N148.5 million.

Furthermore, audit reports have exposed fake quotations and missing vouchers, with a value of over N1.5 billion. The staff insisted. And Funds meant for essential purposes such as labs, safety, and staff training have been looted.

System Failure and Institutional Collapse:

The NMDC, an institution established as a research and development center, has been rendered non-functional. Video evidence confirms that the labs are empty, and the machines are non-operational.

Staff members have spoken out, claiming that the center is “dead” and that “not one machine works.” This failure is directly linked to the alleged corruption, as funds allocated for equipment, maintenance, and training have disappeared.

The absence of a functioning work environment has led to a complete loss of morale among staff, with promotions delayed and training funds vanishing.

There are also claims that staff are working without necessary gear, leading to health risks, including a reported death from work-related cancer.

Posters and placards from the protest explicitly call for the “overhaul of the HR dept to save NMDC,” citing “intimidation and abuse of office.” One poster accuses the DG of “religious abuse” and another states that “staff who refused to play along were demoted, redeployed, and silenced.”

A journalist, Dahiru, who reported on these issues, was met with a defensive response from the NMDC Public Relations Officer (PRO), Sunny Eweama, who accused him of misquoting him. However, Dahiru insisted that his report was fair and that he has documentary evidence to back his claims.

This exchange highlights the management’s efforts to control the narrative and suppress dissent.

The ongoing protest at the NMDC is a direct result of these long-standing issues. Staff members and concerned citizens are demanding accountability and a change in leadership. The video of the protest shows a large crowd carrying placards with various demands, including: * “Investigate NMDC.” * “Overhaul the HR Dept to save NMDC.” * “We are tired of 7 years of no research activity.” * “ICPC and EFCC to investigate N2.5B embezzlement.” * “Asuquo Must Go.”The protesters’ frustration is palpable, and they are resolute in their demand for action from the government.

CONCLUSION

Based on the evidence gathered, the National Metallurgical Development Centre in Jos is in a state of severe crisis, driven by alleged corruption and mismanagement under its current leadership. The institution, which should be a beacon of research and innovation, has been reduced to a dysfunctional and dilapidated facility. The financial irregularities, failed equipment, and pervasive atmosphere of fear and suppression have led to a complete system failure.

The ongoing protest is a clear signal that the situation is untenable and requires immediate intervention. The NMDC is not merely collapsing; it is being “buried under corruption.” Without urgent action from the government to investigate and address these allegations, the center will likely face its demise, representing a national tragedy.

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NMDC Jos: Unmasking corruption and Systemic Failure…