- Safiu Kehinde
The Federal Government has, on Wednesday, suspended 13 students of the Federal Government College in Enugu State for six-weeks over alleged bullying of colleague in the school.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Ministry of Education’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Folashade Boriowo.
According to the statement, the education minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, ordered the suspension of the students based on a viral video showing them engaging in acts of bullying within the school.
The incident which occurred on the 7th of November saw the suspected group of students, whose names were undisclosed, physically assaulting an SS1 student with belts in a classroom.
Alausa, reaffirmed the ministry’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment in all federal schools across the country.
Recent report received by the Federal Ministry of Education, according to the Minister, highlighted the bullying incident at the FUC, Enugu, which raised significant concerns about safety and discipline within the school environment.
”The findings of the ministry, the incident involved the gang assault of an SS1 student (a day student) by a group of students on Nov. 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 13 students involved have been placed on a six-week suspension pending the report of the investigative committee.” Alausa said.
The minister also directed the School Based Management Committee (SBMC) to collaborate with security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, including possible affiliations with external groups.
He added that immediate measures have been implemented to enhance security at the College by engaging law enforcement agents while also reviewing existing safety protocols.
”Additionally, counseling and rehabilitation support will be provided to address all forms of problems while promoting their reintegration into a positive school environment,” he said.