The Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education and Services, Mark B. Useni, has debunked media reports alleging infractions and administrative misconduct by the executive secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba, describing the claims as false and misleading.

In a statement made available to newsmen in Taraba State, Useni, who represents Ussa/Takum/Donga federal constituency, dismissed the reports as an attempt to misinform Nigerians about the activities of the legislature and its education committees.

According to Useni, neither the House nor Senate Committee on Basic Education has received any official complaint or report suggesting violations of the UBEC Act or evidence of maladministration by Aisha Garba, contrary to media claims.

“The headline and content of the reports misrepresent the official position of the committees and are entirely misleading,” he stated.
Useni explained that both committees recently held a joint legislative retreat in Lagos from Thursday, July 17 to Sunday, July 20, 2025, focused solely on the clause-by-clause consideration of proposed amendments to the UBEC Act.
He emphasised that no discussions were held regarding any wrongdoing by the UBEC leadership during the retreat.

“The retreat was collaborative and constructive, aimed at strengthening the legal framework for basic education in Nigeria,” he noted.

He added that the committees received a briefing from the UBEC management during the retreat and commended the Executive Secretary for ongoing reforms, particularly in the areas of quality assurance and collaboration with State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs).

“It is, therefore, inappropriate to link the committee’s legislative duties with allegations expressed by individuals in their personal capacity,” Useni said.

He lauded Aisha Garba’s leadership since her appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting her commitment to accountability, transparency, and improved service delivery in the basic education sector.

Useni urged the media to verify facts and refrain from presenting personal opinions as the official stance of parliamentary committees.
He stressed that any concerns about UBEC operations should be addressed through proper legislative channels.