A formal complaint has been raised over the alleged collection of unauthorized fees from pupils of Nnochie Primary School, Ettam, in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
In a report addressed to key education authorities, including the Ikwo Local Education Authority and the Ebonyi State Universal Basic Education Board, a concerned citizen, Prince Okeowata Monday Jeremiah, accused the school management of imposing illegal levies on pupils.
According to the report, pupils from Primary Three to Primary Six were allegedly required to pay a sum of ₦4,000 each. The payment, reportedly enforced by the headmistress, Mrs Nkwuda Ngozi, is said to have been falsely presented as approved by government authorities, including the office of Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.
The complainant described the levy as illegal and burdensome, noting that it contradicts government policies on free basic education. It was further alleged that several pupils were barred from participating in ongoing second-term examinations due to their inability to pay the fee.
In addition to the ₦4,000 levy, the report claimed that another ₦400 charge was imposed on pupils for workbooks, further compounding the financial strain on parents and guardians.
Investigations cited in the complaint suggest that such collections are not being practiced in other primary schools within Ikwo Local Government Area, raising concerns about irregularities at Nnochie Primary School.
The petition called on relevant authorities to urgently investigate the matter, identify those responsible, halt the collections, and ensure refunds for affected pupils. It also recommended disciplinary action against the headmistress, including possible prosecution, to serve as a deterrent.
Efforts to reach the school authorities for comments were not immediately successful at the time of filing this report.
Education stakeholders have emphasized the need for swift intervention to protect the rights of pupils and uphold access to free and fair basic education in the state.
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