The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) has directed parents of students of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN) to suspend payment of the N750,000 graduation fee pending the conclusion of an ongoing investigation into complaints by concerned parents.

In a letter dated November 27 and signed by the Commission's Head of Operations, Salisu Saleh, the PCACC instructed all affected parents and students not to pay the fee until the probe is completed.

The Commission also directed the university to maintain the status quo and refrain from withholding certificates or NYSC mobilisation from any student over non-payment.

The directive follows a formal petition by concerned parents opposing the graduation fee and calling for PCACC's intervention.

However, the proprietor of the university, Professor Abubakar Adamu Gwarzo, told our reporter by phone that MAAUN will proceed with its December convocation as scheduled. He insisted that as a private institution, the university has the right to set its convocation charges.

Gwarzo said the fee is low compared to what another private university in the state charges. He questioned why PCACC did not halt that institution's recent convocation.

"We will hold our convocation in December as planned, and we will invite you all to cover the event," he said.

A complaint letter signed on behalf of affected students expressed concern over alleged attempts to persuade students individually to negotiate fee reductions -- contrary to an earlier agreement that negotiations would involve only parents, university officials, and government representatives.

While parents requested formal confirmation of this arrangement, MAAUN insists it will proceed with the convocation and that anyone dissatisfied is free to challenge the decision in court.