The Taraba State chapter of the National Council of NGOs and CSOs in Nigeria (NCNCSON) has declared that any attempt to frustrate the free education program of the Taraba State government will not be taken lightly.
Reacting to allegations circulating about the alleged extortion of students by school authorities, the council vowed to leave no stone unturned in assisting the government in actualizing the policy.
They urged those attempting to frustrate the program to desist from such acts immediately.
Condemning the alleged extortion, the council suggested that the government should not hesitate to bring any person or group caught in such acts to justice.
Citing a report from Government Secondary School Takum, where the principal was allegedly demanding N10,000 from students writing the National Examination Council (NECO) exam, they emphasized the need for a thorough government investigation into the principal.
In a statement made available to journalists in Jalingo on Tuesday, state chairman Fidelis Nashuka urged the Taraba State government to investigate the matter and take appropriate sanctions against those responsible.
He added, “The free education program of the state government is a welcome development that should be supported by all, as education is key to a productive and decent society. Any attempt to jeopardize the education of our children should not be taken lightly.
“We encourage all students to take advantage of this program and get themselves educated. Education is a fundamental right, and no student should be denied this right due to extortion or any other form of exploitation. We demand a thorough investigation and appropriate action to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”
Apart from the GSS Takum principal, who is currently under suspension for alleged extortion, several other school heads have also been removed from their positions for allegedly working to undermine the free education programme.
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