The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has instructed the Ministry of Education to temporarily halt the prosecution of parents whose children were found roaming the streets during school hours. This one-week pause was announced by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, after the State Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at Government House.
Breaking the news, Dr. Oviawe stated, “EXCO has granted the Ministry of Education the authority to postpone any legal action against parents for this week. It is a grace period for everyone to ensure compliance and do what is right.”
Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration remains resolute in its commitment towards top-notch education in both public and private schools, ensuring affordability for every parent. Consequently, stringent measures have been implemented to prevent extortion through unnecessary levies and dues imposed by school authorities. Additionally, the Governor has mandated the Ministry to significantly review and reduce the levies and fees to the bare minimum.
“We have the clear directive to ensure that no child is ever driven out of school due to their inability to pay any fees. Furthermore, we have been tasked with revising the current levies and other related costs to the lowest possible level,” affirmed the Commissioner.
Dr. Oviawe emphasized that any school head found guilty of exploiting parents would face disciplinary actions in accordance with civil service rules and would also be subject to prosecution.
