The Federal Government has suspended 13 students of the Federal Government College in Enugu State for six weeks for alleged bullying in the school.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that this was disclosed in a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations in the Federal Ministry of Education, Folashade Boriowo, in Abuja, on Wednesday.
The statement revealed that the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, ordered the suspension based on a viral video showing some students of the school engaging in acts of bullying.
Alausa reaffirmed the ministry’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment in all federal schools across the country.
According to him, a recent report received by the ministry highlighted the bullying incident at the school, which raised significant concerns about safety and discipline within its environment.
The report read, ”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.
“The incident came to light showing the circulation of a disturbing video on social media platforms.
“In response, the Federal Ministry of Education established a disciplinary committee to investigate the matter.
“Based on the findings, all the 13 students involved have been placed on a six-week suspension pending the report of the investigative committee.”
The minister also directed the School Based Management Committee to collaborate with security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, including possible affiliations with external groups.
He added that immediate measures had been implemented to enhance security at the college by engaging law enforcement agents while also reviewing existing safety protocols.
“Additionally, counselling and rehabilitation support will be provided to address all forms of problems while promoting their reintegration into a positive school environment,” he said.
