Cross River State shuts down illegal schools to ensure quality education. Parents urged to enroll children only in approved, accredited institutions.
The Cross River State Government has taken decisive action against illegal schools, shutting down 36 unauthorized institutions operating across three local government areas (LGAs) of the state.
These schools, including both primary and secondary institutions, were found to be running without official registration or approval, putting students’ education and welfare at risk.
Confirming the closures on Tuesday, October 21, the Commissioner for Education, Professor Stephen Odey, described the situation as “unfortunate.” He emphasized that some individuals were exploiting unsuspecting parents by illegal schools.
“These unauthorized schools compromise the integrity of our education system and mislead parents who trust that their children are receiving proper education,” he said.
The enforcement was carried out by the State Task Force on Illegal Schools, inaugurated earlier this month to tackle unapproved educational operations.
Professor Odey warned that the ministry will no longer tolerate mushroom schools and that all operators of illegal schools would face strict consequences.
The crackdown began across the state’s three educational zones—Calabar, Ikom, and Ogoja. The Ministry of Education reported that 16 schools were closed in Calabar, 10 in Ikom, and 10 in Ogoja.
Professor Odey explained that the operation aims to “sanitize the education system and ensure that only schools meeting required standards are allowed to operate.”
Parents and guardians were strongly advised to verify the registration and accreditation status of schools before enrolling their children.
Professor Odey warned that illegal schools often lack qualified teachers, standard curricula, and safe learning environments, which can negatively impact students’ academic and personal development.
Community leaders in affected areas have welcomed the government’s intervention, noting that many illegal schools had been operating unchecked for years.
“Parents often do not know that their children attend schools without accreditation. This action is crucial to protect our children and maintain the credibility of education in Cross River State,” one local representative said.
Professor Odey reaffirmed the government’s commitment to quality education, stressing that only duly registered and accredited schools will be allowed to operate.
The enforcement exercise will eventually extend to all 18 local government areas, ensuring that no unauthorized institution escapes scrutiny.
Experts have highlighted that the rise of illegal schools is partly due to high demand for education and the lack of affordable, accessible options in some communities.
In response, the government is considering policies to improve access, such as expanding public school infrastructure and providing incentives for private investors to establish approved schools.
The Ministry of Education has issued a stern warning to all operators of unauthorized institutions. Professor Odey stated, “We will not allow anyone to exploit parents or compromise educational standards. This exercise will continue until every illegal school is either regularized or permanently closed.”
Parents are encouraged to consult the ministry’s official website or local education offices to confirm a school’s registration status before enrolling their children.
Public awareness campaigns are also planned to educate communities on the dangers of illegal schools and the importance of accredited education.
This crackdown represents a major step in strengthening the education sector in Cross River State.
By targeting illegal schools, the government is creating safer, accountable learning environments, ensuring that all children have access to high-quality, recognized education.
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