Ondo govt warns school heads against unauthorised levies, absenteeism
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Ondo State Government has warned principals and other school administrators against unauthorised collections, absenteeism and other acts of misconduct, saying offenders will face disciplinary measures.
The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, issued the warning on Thursday during a media briefing organised by the ministry ahead of the new academic session in Akure.
Ajibefun said the ministry had stepped up its monitoring of schools across the state, stressing that principals were responsible for ensuring compliance with government policies and maintaining discipline among staff and students.
He disclosed that some school heads had already been sanctioned over various infractions, including collecting money from students without approval and failing to properly account for funds. One of the affected administrators, he said, was ordered to refund money collected illegally.
The commissioner also frowned on absenteeism among school administrators, saying the government would enforce greater accountability and ensure that principals and head teachers remained at their duty posts.
“Nobody is above being reprimanded. Depending on the level of the offence, we will take the necessary action,” Ajibefun said, listing possible sanctions to include queries, transfers, removal from office and other disciplinary measures.
While commending teachers and principals who were committed to their duties, he said the government’s measures were aimed at protecting standards rather than punishing school workers, citing the success of a St Joseph College, Ondo, student who emerged first in a national mathematics competition involving the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Ajibefun further urged school heads to maintain firm control of their schools and assured compliant administrators of the ministry’s support, warning that those who violated regulations would not escape appropriate sanctions.
