In a decisive move to curb bullying in schools, the Federal Government has suspended 13 students of Federal Government College, FGC, Enugu for six weeks after a video of them allegedly bullying a fellow student went viral.
This decision was announced by Folashade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Education, in a statement from Abuja on Wednesday.
Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa ordered the suspension, citing the need to uphold a safe learning environment in federal schools nationwide. He emphasized that the ministry would continue to prioritize school safety and discipline to prevent similar incidents.
The incident involved a group assault on an SS1 day student on November 7. After a video of the bullying circulated widely on social media, the ministry established a disciplinary committee to investigate the case. Based on initial findings, the involved students have been placed on a six-week suspension while the investigation proceeds.
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Dr. Alausa has also tasked the School-Based Management Committee with working alongside security agencies to uncover any possible external influences connected to the incident. He assured that security reinforcements are now in place at the college, alongside a review of safety protocols, to prevent future occurrences.
The Ministry of Education also plans to provide counseling and rehabilitation for affected students, with the aim of fostering a positive environment at FGC Enugu.
Meanwhile, the Enugu State Ministry of Education reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward bullying, stating that both students and school administrators found responsible for lapses in discipline will face consequences.
Commissioner for Education Prof. Ndubueze Mbah called the incident “emotionally distressing” and emphasized that swift action is underway to prosecute those involved.
“We are working with the Federal Ministry of Education to ensure that those responsible are held accountable, as the safety and well-being of our students remain our top priority,” Mbah stated.
This coordinated response underscores both state and federal commitment to addressing school bullying and maintaining student safety across the nation.
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