The Akwa Ibom State Government has suspended the principal of Presbyterian Senior Science College, Ididep, Dr. Nse Sunday Umoh, following allegations of poor feeding conditions for students.
The State Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, announced the suspension in a statement issued in Uyo on Saturday. The action was prompted by a viral video showing students being served unpalatable and non-nutritious meals.
Condemning the incident, the commissioner disclosed that a full investigation had been launched into the feeding arrangements and overall boarding conditions at the school and 25 other boarding secondary schools across the state.
“Following the very disturbing video where students were fed with unpalatable and non-nutritious meals at Presbyterian Senior Science College, Ididep, I paid an unscheduled visit to the school,” Etiebet stated. “I have directed a comprehensive investigation into the state of boarding facilities, including hostels, dining halls, recreation areas, menus, kitchens, and sanitary facilities, across all boarding schools in the state.”
She further disclosed that the review would be jointly supervised by the Permanent Secretaries of the Ministry of Education and the State Secondary Education Board.
Etiebet reassured the public that the government prioritizes the welfare and dignity of students in public schools, noting that the free education policy covers tuition fees but not boarding fees. She also urged parents to contribute to their children’s upkeep.
“The Ministry is committed to ensuring that all public school facilities meet irreducible minimum standards that uphold the well-being of both learners and staff,” she added.
Dr. Umoh’s suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of the investigation.
