The federal government has ordered the immediate suspension for six weeks of all 13 students allegedly involved in bullying their fellow students in Senior Secondary (SS1) at Federal Government College, Enugu, on November 7.
The minister of education, Dr Maruf Alausa, ordered the suspension to allow the disciplinary committee set up by the Federal Ministry of Education to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
The action of the Ministry of Education followed the circulation of a disturbing video on social media platforms, where a group of students were seen assaulting a student identified as an SS1 student.
The director of press and public relations, Folasade Boriowo, issued a statement yesterday in Abuja stating that the minister of education, Dr Alausa, reaffirmed the ministry’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment in all federal schools across Nigeria.
He assured parents, guardians, and the general public that all necessary actions would be taken to restore peace and protect students at FGC Enugu.
“A recent report received by the Federal Ministry of Education highlighted the bullying incident at the Federal Government College (FGC), Enugu, which raised significant concerns about safety and discipline within the school environment. According to the findings of the Ministry, the incident involved the gang assault of an SS1 student (a day student) by a group of students on November 7, 2024.
“The incident came to light following the circulation of a disturbing video on social media platforms.
“The Federal Ministry of Education established a disciplinary committee to investigate the matter. Based on the findings, all 13 students involved have been placed on a six-week suspension pending the report of the investigative committee.
“To address the incident, the Federal Ministry of Education has directed the School-Based Management Committee (SBMC) to collaborate with security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, including possible affiliations with external groups.
“Immediate measures have been implemented to enhance security at the College by engaging law enforcement and reviewing existing safety protocols,” the statement noted.
It added that counselling and rehabilitation support would address all problems while promoting their reintegration into a positive school environment.
“The minister urges all stakeholders, including parents, school authorities, and security agencies, to work collaboratively in addressing these issues and fostering a secure atmosphere for students to thrive,” Boriowo said.
