The federal government has suspended 13 students of Federal Government College, Enugu, over a bullying incident in the school.
News About Nigeria gathered that a viral video capturing a gang assault of an SS1 student (a day student) by a group of students had surfaced on social media on the 7th of November 2024.
The incident led to an outrage among parents and guardians.
In a statement titled, “Ensuring a safe and secure learning environment,” the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, reacted to the incident, raising significant concerns about safety and discipline within the school environment.
In the statement, signed by the ministry’s Director, Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, Dr. Alausa directed the School-Based Management Committee, SBMC, to collaborate with security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, including possible affiliations with external groups.
He stated that immediate measures have been implemented to enhance security at the college by engaging law enforcement and reviewing existing safety protocols.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment in all federal schools across Nigeria.
He further disclosed that based on the findings, all 13 students involved have been placed on a six-week suspension pending the report of the investigative committee.
The Minister assured parents, guardians, and the general public that all necessary actions will be taken to restore peace and ensure the protection of students at FGC Enugu.
The statement reads, “A recent report received by the Federal Ministry of Education highlighted the bullying incident at the Federal Government College (FGC), Enugu, which raised significant concerns about safety and discipline within the school environment.
“According to the findings of the ministry, incident involved the gang assault of an SS1 student (a day student) by a group of students on November 7, 2024.
“The incident came to light following the circulation of a disturbing video on social media platforms. In response, the Federal Ministry of Education established a disciplinary committee to investigate the matter. Based on the findings, all 13 students involved have been placed on a six-week suspension pending the report of the investigative committee.
“Additionally, counseling and rehabilitation support will be provided to address all forms of problems while promoting their reintegration into a positive school environment.”
