Kogi State Government has hinted that collection of school fees and unauthorised charges in Public Primary and Secondary Schools is a criminal offence.
Commissioner of Education, Hon. Wemi Jones stated this in an address shortly after he was conferred with an Award of Excellence by a Non Governmental Organisation, Corps D’ Progressives at the 25th Anniversary and Public Lecture of the NGO at Tafari Hotels and Suites, Kabba-Okene Road, Adavi Local Government Area.
Hon. Jones, who was conferred with an Award of Excellence for his immense contributions to the State Education sector, said under the Free Education Law signed into law by the immediate past administration, school fees for Pupils and Students in Public Primary and Secondary Schools are free of charge.
He pointed out that with the law, any one who collects school fees or any charges under any guise has committed an office and must face the full wrath of the law.
According to him, some Principals and School Administrators are currently being investigated for suspected extortion, saying whoever that is found wanting will face the consequences of their actions.
He stated that the recent de-registration of 13 schools and blacklisting of 14 supervisors due to allegations of Examination malpractice in the 2023/2024 examinations by WAEC is currently being investigated as sanctions will be melted on culprits.
Hon. Jones however expressed appreciation to the Corps D’ Progressive for investing in Education in the last 25 years and prayed to God to reward them.
The Commissioner stated that the activities of the Organisation is in line with the School Adoption and Mentorship Programme of the State Government.
He further noted that proper planning and adequate funding necessitated the current development in the Education sector of Kogi State, especially the establishment of two Universities in the space of two years.
He added that the Government is making significant progress in the Education sector as developing the sector is a collective responsibility.
The Programme is with the theme: “The Place of Education in Unlocking Possibilities.”
