The Taraba State government has suspended seven secondary school principals for allegedly sabotaging the free education policy implemented by the governor. The policy, which includes free education in government primary and secondary schools and payment of WAEC and NECO fees for prospective candidates, was introduced to benefit students across the state.
However, the suspended principals were accused of extorting money from students, contrary to the policy. The Commissioner of Education, Augustina Yahaya, announced the suspension on Tuesday, stating that the principals were working against the government’s efforts to provide free education.
The affected schools include:
1. Government Day Secondary School, Kofai
2. Government Day Secondary School, Salihu Dogo, Jalingo
3. GDSS Kununi, Lau
4. GDSS Jouro Yinu, Ardo-Kola
5. GDSS Kakulu, Zing
6. GSS Takum
7. GDSS Yakassai, Wukari
The Commissioner alleged that the principals collected money from students for NECO and WAEC fees, and in some cases, sold slots to external students. One principal was also suspended for negligence, resulting in 105 final year students being denied registration for their exams.
The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the state government, has vowed to take action against those sabotaging the free education policy.