Delta Warns School Inspectors Against Unauthorised Enrolment Charges

By Jude Bruno Amamosa

The Delta State Commissioner for Primary Education, Rose Ezewu, has sounded a clear note of caution to Chief Inspectors of Education across the state, urging them to steer clear of any practice that could place an extra burden on parents and to keep strictly to the approved enrolment guidelines.

She gave the warning on Monday during a meeting with the inspectors at her office in Asaba, where she expressed concern over reports suggesting that some officials were acting outside laid-down procedures.

According to the commissioner, information reaching her office indicated that certain inspectors were allegedly asking parents, especially those with pupils below the age of 10, to pay ₦10,000 while claiming the directive came from her office. She made it clear that no such instruction was ever issued.

Mrs Ezewu said any collection of money in her name, whether in public or private schools, is without her consent and cannot be justified. She reminded the inspectors that their responsibility is to implement policy, not to create new charges outside what is already approved. She stressed that at no time did her office, either verbally or in writing, authorise additional enrolment fees, and she urged anyone involved in the practice to stop immediately.

ALSO READ: University Of Abuja Expels 28 Students, Withdraws Certificates Of 15 Former Students

The commissioner also cautioned against pressuring parents with claims of enrolment deadlines, explaining that her office has not announced any closure and advising officials to focus on service rather than creating panic.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Okhaku Iniovosa, said the outcome of the meeting would be compiled into a report and assured that any officer found wanting would be dealt with according to civil service regulations.

The meeting, attended by education officials and members of the media, reflects the ministry’s effort to reinforce discipline within the system and reassure parents that the enrolment process will remain fair and transparent.