Cross River Cracks Down on Illegal Schools, Shuts 36 Unapproved Institutions

In a decisive initiative to enhance educational standards and uphold quality assurance, the Cross River State Government has ordered the closure of 36 illegal and unapproved schools across the state. This enforcement exercise was conducted by the newly established State Task Force on Illegal Schools, created to sanitize the education sector from sub-standard and unregistered institutions threatening the integrity of education.

The Ministry of Education disclosed that the closures spanned the state’s three main educational zones: Calabar, Ikom, and Ogoja. Sixteen schools were shut down in Calabar, while the Ikom and Ogoja zones saw 10 unapproved schools closed each. These closures reflect the government’s zero-tolerance stance against unauthorized educational operations.

Professor Stephen Odey, the Commissioner for Education, confirmed the actions during the operation and lamented the persistence of illegal school operators despite earlier warnings. He emphasized that this crackdown is part of a broader reform agenda under Governor Bassey Otu’s administration, aimed at cleaning up the education sector in all 18 local government areas.

Parents and guardians were strongly urged by the commissioner to verify the approval status of schools before enrolling their children, to avoid the risk of closure and disruption. Illegal schools often operate with unqualified teachers, use non-approved curricula, and lack the necessary infrastructure, thereby compromising students’ learning and future prospects.

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The Task Force’s ongoing work is aligned with comprehensive education reforms endorsed by Governor Bassey Otu and driven by Professor Odey. It is designed not only to close illegal schools but also to ensure that those operating meet all legal and quality requirements. Schools found operating unlawfully face legal sanctions and rigorous processes if they seek to reopen.

This effort by the government marks a significant step in bolstering the quality and regulation of education in Cross River State, safeguarding the future of the state’s children and bolstering public confidence in the education system.