Akwa Ibom Suspends Principal, Launches Investigation Into Substandard Meals

The Akwa Ibom State government has initiated an investigation into the conditions of boarding schools following the circulation of a viral video that depicted students at Presbyterian Senior Science College, Ididep, Ibiono Ibom, consuming poor-quality meals.

This development was confirmed in a statement issued on Saturday by the state’s Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, in Uyo.

In response to the video, which caused widespread concern over the substandard meals being served, the commissioner revealed she made an unannounced visit to the school. Following her visit, the principal of the school, Dr. Nse Sunday Umoh, was immediately suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

“After seeing the alarming video showing students being served unappetizing and nutritionally inadequate meals, I visited the school without prior notice,” Etiebet explained. “I have ordered a thorough investigation into the condition of the boarding facilities at this school, as well as the other 25 public boarding schools in the state. The investigation will cover aspects such as hostels, dining areas, kitchens, sanitation facilities, and recreation zones. This process will be overseen by the Permanent Secretaries of the Ministry of Education and the State Secondary Education Board.”

Etiebet emphasized that while the state’s free education policy covers tuition fees, it does not include boarding expenses. However, she assured that the welfare and dignity of students in public schools remain a top priority for Governor Umo Eno’s administration.

“We encourage parents, who have already been relieved of tuition fees, to support their children’s basic needs in secondary schools,” she added.

The commissioner reiterated the state’s commitment to improving educational standards and ensuring public school facilities meet minimum health and safety requirements.

“The government is committed to ensuring that all public schools maintain facilities that safeguard the health and well-being of both students and staff,” Etiebet affirmed.

She concluded by urging the public to remain patient as the investigation progresses, emphasizing the government’s dedication to advancing education through the ARISE Agenda.