By Abiola Olawale
A trending video depicting the terrible state of a boarding secondary School in Akwa Ibom State with students being poorly fed has triggered massive public reactions.
Many Nigerians took to their social media platforms to express grave concern about the pitiable and horrifying condition of the students of the College as shown in the viral video. Many accused the state government of being insensitive to the plight of the students.
In a swift reaction, the Akwa Ibom Stste government has announced the suspension of the principal of Presbyterian Senior Science College, Ididep, Akwa Ibom State, Dr NSE Sunday Umoh, over the alleged poor feeding of students of the school.
The development was announced in a press statement issued by the Commissioner for Education, Mrs Idongesit Etiebet.
Etiebet announced that an investigation has commenced regarding the Presbyterian Senior Science College due to serious allegations concerning the mistreatment of students.
Etiebet, while expressing her strong disapproval of the incident, said thorough investigation will be conducted to look into the overall conditions of the boarding facilities at the school in question, as well as the other 25 boarding secondary schools throughout the state.
She emphasized that this comprehensive review will meticulously examine various aspects of the facilities, including the hostels, dining halls, recreational areas, menus, kitchens, and sanitation facilities.
According to her, the investigation will be conducted collaboratively under the guidance of the permanent secretaries from both the Ministry of Education and the State Secondary Education Board.
The commissioner added that the steps were necessary following the emergence of the viral video in question where students were seen eating unpalatable and non-nutritious meals.
The statement reads in part: “Following the very disturbing video where students were fed with unpalatable and innutrious meals at Presbyterian Senior Science College, Ididep, I paid an unscheduled visit to the school. I have directed a comprehensive investigation into the state of boarding facilities in the school and the other 25 boarding secondary schools across the state.
“Consequently, I have also directed the immediate suspension of the principal of the school, Dr NSE Sunday Umoh, pending the outcome of the investigation.
“The Ministry is committed to ensuring that all public school facilities meet minimum standards that uphold the well-being of both learners and staff.”
