The Rivers State Government has launched an investigation into allegations of extortion, bribery and examination malpractice at the Rivers State College of Nursing Sciences. The Ministry of Health said the complaints include illegal payments for project approvals, the sale of exam questions and marking guides, and bribery in exchange for guaranteed passes.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Adaeze Oreh, said the government had set up an independent panel to handle the matter, stressing that the state has zero tolerance for corruption. She said the panel will operate independently and submit a full report after examining all the claims made against the affected department.

According to the ministry, officials linked to the allegations have already been suspended, and plans are in place to appoint an acting head for the department. A forensic audit will also be carried out on the Year Two second semester examinations to determine whether any irregularities occurred.

The government has promised to protect students and staff who provide useful information to the panel. Dr Oreh assured the public that anyone found guilty will face appropriate sanctions, adding that the integrity of professional examinations must be protected at all times.