The Ebonyi State Ministry of Education has commenced investigations into alleged illegal levies imposed by more than 87 public and private schools across the state for graduation, valedictory and award ceremonies.
The ministry said the action followed complaints from parents, some of whom alleged that their children were sent out of examination halls or denied participation in school activities over their inability to pay the unauthorised charges.
According to the complaints, the levies ranged from N2,000 to N10,000.
A preliminary investigation by the ministry's panel reportedly found that 53 students corroborated the allegations made by their parents.
The Ministry of Education said principals, head teachers and proprietors of the affected schools would be invited to respond to the allegations as investigations continue.
It warned that any school found to have violated the state's education policies would face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law.
The ministry further disclosed that its surveillance teams have been deployed across the three senatorial zones to monitor compliance with government directives and ensure strict enforcement of approved education policies.
It listed the sanctions for any school found culpable to include withdrawal of operational approval, prosecution where necessary and the imposition of penalties as provided by relevant laws and regulations.
The ministry advised all school administrators to comply fully with government directives and refrain from imposing unauthorised levies on parents or engaging in practices that undermine the state's education policies.
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