The Delta State Commissioner for Primary Education, Rose Ezewu, has cautioned Chief Inspectors of Education (CIEs) across the state against collecting unauthorised enrolment fees from parents.
She stressed that such practices go against government policy and unfairly increase the financial strain on families.
Speaking at a meeting with CIEs in Asaba on Tuesday, the commissioner addressed reports that some officials were disregarding approved enrolment procedures. According to her, the ministry received credible complaints that certain inspectors were demanding ₦10,000 from parents especially those with children under 10 years old while falsely claiming the directive came from her office. She firmly denied giving any such approval.
Mrs. Ezewu made it clear that collecting money in her name, whether in public or private schools, is illegal and unacceptable. She reminded the inspectors that their responsibility is to enforce established policies, not to introduce new charges without proper authorisation.
She further clarified that her office has never approved additional enrolment fees, either verbally or in writing, and ordered anyone involved in the practice to stop immediately.
The commissioner also warned inspectors not to pressure parents with claims of impending enrolment deadlines, noting that no official announcement has been made regarding the closure of registration. She encouraged education officials to prioritise effective service delivery instead of causing unnecessary fear or confusion.
Meanwhile, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Okhaku Iniovosa, stated that discussions from the meeting would be compiled into an official report. She added that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face disciplinary action in accordance with civil service regulations.
The meeting, attended by senior education officials and media representatives, reaffirmed the ministry’s resolve to uphold discipline within the education sector and assured parents that the enrolment process in Delta State remains transparent, fair, and free of unauthorised fees.
