The Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) has indefinitely suspended four students of the institution, who were arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for the roles they played in an alleged N16 million Internet fraud. Out of the five suspected undergraduate scammers that were arrested, 4 are from (FUTA) while 1 is from Adekunle Ajashin University, Akungba. They allegedly swindled unsuspecting foreigners and others to the tune of N16M by engaging in fraudulent activities of obtaining money by false pretences through scam mails.
Head, Information and Protocol Unit of FUTA, Mr. Adegbenro Adebanjo, said the university’s vice chancellor approved the sanction based on the school rules, which stipulate indefinite suspension for students arrested and being investigated for allegation of criminal activities. Part of it read,
“The four students, who have been given indefinite suspension and are to stay away from the school until further notice, are Ogundile A.O , Civil & Environmental Engineering; Fasakin P. T, Civil & Environmental Engineering; Akinsanmi F.O, Mathematical Sciences; and Ifeobu U. O. of the Department of Urban & Regional Planning. This is in accordance with the provisions of the university Handbook of Information 2012-2015 Page 54, paragraph 5(i) which states that, ‘Whenever a student is being investigated for a criminal offence by the Police or is charged with a criminal offence; whether or not connected with the university; the student shall be suspended from his studentship until he/she is cleared of the allegation/charge’.”