The Rivers State Ministry of Education has warned principals and other school administrators against extortion and the imposition of unauthorised fees on students and their parents, threatening disciplinary action against officers found culpable.
The warning follows allegations of extortion against the Principal of Senior Secondary School, Bunu-Tai, in Tai Local Government Area of the state, following a peaceful demonstration by students on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
The allegations include the purported demand for ₦20,000 as admission fees, ₦10,000 for WAEC calculators and ₦13,000 as sports fees, despite claims that no sporting activities were conducted.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, October 22, the Ministry described the allegations as a matter of grave concern and condemned any attempt by school administrators to exploit students and parents through unauthorised levies and illegal charges.
The Ministry reiterated the Rivers State Government’s commitment to free education in public schools, stressing that no student should be denied access to education or subjected to unauthorised financial demands. It reminded principals and school authorities across the state to operate strictly in accordance with the Ministry’s approved policies and guidelines.
The statement, signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mina Tele-Ikuru, on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner for Education, disclosed that the Ministry had initiated administrative processes to investigate the allegations and establish the facts. It added that appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken against any officer found culpable, in line with the applicable Public Service Rules.
The Ministry further warned principals, headteachers and other school administrators that extortion, unauthorised fees and the exploitation of students and their parents would not be tolerated. It also encouraged students and parents to report demands for unauthorised payments through the appropriate channels, providing relevant details to facilitate prompt investigation and action.
The Ministry reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality, affordable and equitable education without the burden of illegal financial demands. It stressed that the free education policy remained in force and that no school administrator was above the law.
