This development has raised concerns about the quality of education in the state, as unqualified individuals may be employed based on their ability to pay rather than their qualifications
By Asaye Bankole
The Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes, and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC) has commenced an investigation into allegations of buying and selling employment slots against the Ondo State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).
According to sources, the alleged scandal involves candidates paying between ₦200,000 to ₦750,000 to secure teaching positions.
The anti-corruption commission’s secretary, Prof. Adewole Adeyeye, confirmed the story and assured that the investigation would be thorough to protect the integrity of the government of His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
This development has raised concerns about the quality of education in the state, as unqualified individuals may be employed based on their ability to pay rather than their qualifications.
The decay in the educational sector has been a pressing issue, with many schools lacking qualified teachers. The alleged corrupt practice in TESCOM and SUBEB recruitments may be a significant contributor to this problem. When individuals bribe their way into teaching positions, it’s unlikely they’ll be committed to the system.
The teaching profession seems to be neglected and relegated in Ondo State. Unlike other ministries where children and wards of retiring staff members are often appointed to replace their parents, teachers face a different reality. Many qualified teachers who graduated over 14 years ago are still waiting for employment opportunities.
Parents of these youths have served the state in various capacities and are still waiting for their gratuities to be paid. It’s disheartening to see that despite their loyalty and service, their children are struggling to find employment in the teaching sector.
The SPFACC’s investigation is a step in the right direction. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa must take decisive action to address this anomaly and ensure that the teaching profession is valued and respected. The state’s education sector needs qualified and dedicated teachers to thrive.
Recently, Ondo State TESCOM and SUBEB conducted recruitment exercises for teaching positions. In 2025, SUBEB released a final list of 1,100 recruited teachers for public primary schools. TESCOM also conducted a recruitment exercise for secondary school teachers.
To qualify for teaching positions in Ondo State, candidates typically need to have five O’Level credits, a Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE), or a degree in Education.
The investigation into the alleged buying and selling of employment slots in Ondo State TESCOM and SUBEB is crucial. If proven true, it would undermine the integrity of the education system. The state government must take decisive action to address this issue and ensure that qualified teachers are employed based on merit, not bribery.
In a media interaction with Journalists, Dr. Tayo Oloba, Media and Strategy Director of the Coalition for Transparency CT, emphasized the need for the commission to take the allegations seriously.
He outlined key areas of focus for the investigation, including ensuring transparency in the recruitment process, holding those guilty of corruption accountable, and prioritizing merit-based employment.
Dr. Oloba also stressed the importance of addressing teacher welfare, particularly the payment of gratuities to retired teachers. By taking these steps, the government can help restore integrity to the education system and ensure that qualified teachers are employed to provide quality education.
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