The Education Secretary of Ohafia Local Government Area in Abia State, Mr. Sunny Okechukwu, has warned public school teachers and headteachers in the area to stop collecting illegal levies from pupils and organizing unapproved graduation ceremonies.
Speaking at a meeting with school heads held in Ebem, the LGA headquarters, Okechukwu reminded them that Governor Alex Otti has declared free education in all public primary and junior secondary schools across the state.
He expressed disappointment over reports that some teachers were still demanding money from pupils despite the state’s free education policy. He warned that anyone caught would face disciplinary action.
“Education at the basic level is free in Abia. No teacher has any right to demand levies or fees from pupils,” he said. “Also, graduation ceremonies in public schools remain banned.”
Okechukwu noted that teachers in the state have been receiving their salaries and welfare benefits without delay and should not engage in activities that undermine government policy.
He ordered that all monies collected from pupils be refunded immediately and urged teachers to stay committed to their duties.
This move follows the state government’s efforts to strengthen its free education policy and eliminate hidden charges in schools, which often discourage poor families from sending their children to school.
