The Benue State Government has taken decisive action against illegal charges in public schools by ordering the immediate refund of ₦106,000 unlawfully collected from a student for WAEC and NECO registration fees. The move has sparked widespread reactions and renewed conversations around transparency, accountability, and access to affordable education in Nigeria.
The directive sends a strong message to school administrators and officials who exploit parents and students under the guise of examination-related costs.
How the Issue Came to Light
The controversy began after reports emerged that a secondary school in Benue State charged a student the sum of ₦106,000 for the registration of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination and the National Examination Council examination.
The amount, which far exceeds the officially approved fees, quickly attracted public attention and prompted intervention by state authorities. Education officials confirmed that the charge was not only excessive but also unauthorized.
Government’s Swift Intervention
Following an investigation, the Benue State Government ordered the school to refund the full ₦106,000 to the affected student without delay. Officials described the act as exploitative and unacceptable, particularly at a time when many families are struggling with economic hardship.
The government emphasized that no school has the authority to arbitrarily inflate examination fees or impose hidden charges on students.
Official Position on WAEC and NECO Fees
Education authorities reiterated that examination bodies such as WAEC and NECO have clearly defined registration fees, which are communicated annually. Any additional charges imposed by schools must be officially approved and clearly justified.
The Benue State Ministry of Education stressed that parents and guardians should report cases of overcharging, assuring the public that the government will not hesitate to take disciplinary action against offenders.
Warning to School Administrators
The state government issued a stern warning to principals and school owners, stating that anyone found engaging in similar practices would face sanctions. These may include refunds, suspension, or other disciplinary measures in line with civil service and education regulations.
Officials noted that the goal is not only to punish wrongdoing but also to deter future abuse and restore trust in the public education system.
Relief for Parents and Students
Parents across the state have welcomed the government’s intervention, describing it as a relief and a sign that authorities are paying attention to the financial pressures faced by families.
Many believe the decision will discourage schools from imposing arbitrary fees and help ensure that students are not denied examination opportunities due to inflated costs.
Broader Implications for Education Accountability
The incident has reignited national discussions about fee regulation in secondary schools and the need for stronger oversight. Education advocates argue that unchecked charges contribute to inequality and push vulnerable students out of the system.
By stepping in decisively, the Benue State Government has positioned itself as a defender of students’ rights and a promoter of fairness in education administration.
Call for Vigilance and Transparency
The government has encouraged parents, teachers, and students to remain vigilant and speak up against unethical practices. Authorities say transparency in school fees is essential to achieving inclusive and quality education.
As enforcement continues, education stakeholders hope the action will set a precedent for other states to follow.
