Categories: Education

Babcock University denies Epstein-linked spy tech deal

Babcock University has dismissed a report by Al Jazeera alleging that the institution was connected to the procurement of biometric and surveillance equipment linked to late American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

In a statement issued on Thursday, February 19, 2026, the university’s Associate Vice-President for Communication, Media and Branding, Dr Johnson Akintayo, described the claims as false and misleading.

The Al Jazeera report had alleged that Epstein and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak worked for years to promote surveillance technologies in Nigeria, including to institutions in the country, as part of efforts to gain access to strategic sectors such as oil and logistics.

The report, titled “Tested on Palestinians: Epstein, Israel’s Barak pushed spy tech in Nigeria”, said such technologies were marketed locally.

Reacting, Akintayo said Babcock University has never purchased biometric or surveillance equipment from Israel and has no involvement in counter-terrorism, intelligence gathering or any form of security operations.

Akintayo stressed that Babcock University operates under strict procurement procedures in line with Nigerian laws and internationally recognised accountability standards, noting that all acquisitions are subject to structured approvals, documentation and institutional oversight.

He said: “Immediately following the report, the university initiated a comprehensive internal review of its procurement, financial, and administrative records.

“This review confirmed that the claims referencing the institution are entirely unfounded, spurious, baseless and false.

“As a faith-based institution grounded in academic excellence, ethical governance, and regulatory compliance, the University operates under clearly defined procurement procedures aligned with national laws and internationally recognized accountability standards.

“All acquisitions are subject to structured approval processes, documentation protocols, and institutional oversight.

“The university strongly dissociates itself from any insinuation that contradicts its mission, values, governance framework, or operational mandate.”

Akintayo added that Babcock University remains committed to integrity, transparency and responsible leadership, as well as to maintaining the confidence of its students, parents, partners, regulators, and the wider public.

The Star