The Federal Ministry of Education has strongly condemned in its entirety, the unfortunate incident which occurred at Complete Child Development College, Aule, Akure, Ondo State, where suspected thugs, allegedly hired by the parents of a student, assaulted the Vice Principal, Mr. Rotifa, for performing his lawful duty of upholding the integrity of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The Director, Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade in a statement on Tuesday said the Ministry, under the leadership of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, reiterates its zero tolerance for examination malpractice, intimidation of school staff, and any form of unethical conduct from students, parents, or guardians.
It reads in parts; "We commend the swift response of Executive Governor of Ondo State His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa,r and the State Police Command in arresting the suspects, including Mrs. Dorcas Asije and four accomplices. We urge that thorough investigations be concluded and all culprits duly prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.
"The Ministry, under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, reiterates its zero tolerance for examination malpractice, intimidation of school staff, and any form of unethical conduct from students, parents, or guardians. Any student found engaging in examination malpractice will face sanctions in line with national examination guidelines.
"Furthermore, any parent or guardian who enables, supports, or participates in such criminal behaviour will be prosecuted under the law."
The Minister stated that all schools are encouraged to promptly report any threats or breaches of conduct during examinations to law enforcement agencies and relevant educational authorities.
"We are working in collaboration with state ministries of education, law enforcement agencies, and examination bodies to enhance the security and integrity of our examination processes.
"The Federal Ministry of Education stands firmly with the management and staff of Complete Child Development College, and by extension, all education stakeholders nationwide who continue to uphold the values of discipline, accountability, academic excellence, and who resist examination malpractice."