The Joint Unions of the Nigerian Institute for Trypanosomiasis Research (NITR) have rejected allegations of staff intimidation, redundancy, and financial misconduct, describing a recent media report as misleading and lacking credibility.
Speaking during a news briefing held at the institute’s headquarters in Kaduna, the union chairman, Comrade Dr. Umar Musa, said the report, published on April 16, 2026 by Sahara Reporters , failed to present a balanced account of events.
He accused the publishers of not seeking the institute’s response before going public with what he called “serious and damaging claims.”
According to Musa, the allegation that operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) prevented a senior staff member from accessing her office was misrepresented. He explained that the officer had already been redeployed to the institute’s North-East Zonal Office in Gombe in March 2026, in line with civil service rules.
“She had formally handed over her duties before the reported incident,” Musa said. “Her presence in Kaduna was only to attend to a matter with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and not to resume at her former duty post.”
He added that management’s actions were aimed at maintaining order and preventing disruption within the institute.
On allegations of financial
misappropriation involving the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. J.J. Ajakaiye, and other officials, the union chairman confirmed that investigations are ongoing but warned against premature conclusions.
He noted that the matter is currently before anti-graft agencies, including the ICPC and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
“No one should assume guilt while investigations are still in progress,” Musa said, stressing the need for due process.
The union also dismissed claims that the institute had recruited 92 new staff, describing the assertion as false. Musa explained that no recruitment exercise had taken place in 2026 and that it was too early in the year for such processes to begin.
Addressing the claim that over 900 staff members were idle or redundant, Musa described it as “malicious” and an attempt to tarnish the institute’s image.
He highlighted ongoing research activities focused on neglected tropical diseases such as sleeping sickness and river blindness, as well as field operations across several states including Bauchi, Ondo, Bayelsa, and Gombe.
Despite funding challenges, particularly delays in the release of capital funds, Musa said staff have remained committed to their duties. He noted that workers continue to support donor-funded projects, sustain essential operations, and contribute to the institute’s research mandate.
“These efforts clearly show that our staff are dedicated and actively engaged,” he said.
The union called for responsible journalism and urged media organizations to verify information before publication. Musa reiterated that the institute remains focused on its core mission of research and development while cooperating with ongoing investigations into the financial allegations.
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