Bauchi Assembly Uncovers Alleged Arson, Mismanagement at Health College in Ningi
Ahmed Kaigama
The Bauchi State House of Assembly has uncovered a series of administrative lapses, security breakdowns, and alleged financial mismanagement at the Bill and Melinda Gates College of Health Technology, Ningi, following an in-depth investigation into a fire outbreak suspected to be deliberate.
Presenting its findings on Tuesday, the Joint Committee on Health and Public Accounts said the probe was triggered by a petition from concerned residents of Ningi Emirate over the October 23, 2025 fire, which destroyed key facilities, including the library, computer laboratory, lecture halls, and critical records.
According to the committee, evidence from the Bauchi State Fire Service suggests human involvement, with items such as matches and gloves recovered at the scene.
Although some suspects were arrested and questioned, no prosecution has been secured, raising concerns about accountability.
The lawmakers described the crisis at the institution as systemic, citing internal conflicts among management and weak disciplinary mechanisms that have hampered effective governance.
Poor security arrangements were also identified as a major vulnerability.The report further revealed irregularities in the college’s Consultancy Unit, which allegedly admitted about 1,450 students beyond capacity, straining facilities and lowering academic standards.
Financial concerns were also raised, including unpaid lecturers and unaccounted revenue.
The committee recommended sweeping reforms, including a management overhaul, forensic audit, improved security, and stricter admission controls, urging government intervention to restore standards and ensure justice.
