Benue tightens school rules, bans phones, extra lessons, bullying

The Benue State Government has banned individuals, non-governmental organisations and other external bodies from gaining unauthorised access to both private and public schools across the state. Also, the government has prohibited the use of mobile phones during school hours, as well as extra lessons after regular school hours. The State Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Mrs Margaret Adamu, announced this at a press conference held in Makurdi on Monday. The commissioner, who announced that the new academic session would begin on Monday, September 7, 2026, called for renewed commitment to quality education and strict compliance with government policies. The commissioner warned against what she described as 'barbaric ways of celebrating birthdays', whereby learners manhandle celebrants in schools, classrooms and hostels. The state government also warned parents and guardians against assaulting, threatening, intimidating or verbally abusing teachers, principals or other school staff. She stated, 'No NGO, individual, organisation or external body shall enter a school to conduct programmes, activities, research, advocacy or interventions without the appropriate authorisation from the Ministry of Education and Knowledge Management. 'Learners are prohibited from possessing or using mobile phones during school hours, except where specifically authorised for legitimate educational purposes under the applicable school guidelines. 'Learners are expected to resume school on time, attend classes regularly and remain within authorised school areas. Late coming, truancy and loitering during school hours must be firmly addressed by school authorities. 'Bullying, intimidation, harassment, hazing and all forms of violence among learners are strictly prohibited. School authorities must establish and maintain safe, respectful and inclusive learning environments.' The commissioner explained that the policies were designed to protect learners, reduce unnecessary financial burdens on parents, improve discipline, strengthen school management and raise the standard of education in the state. 'I therefore warn that non-compliance with approved policies and directives will attract appropriate sanctions in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and guidelines. 'School proprietors, principals and heads of schools are expected to familiarise themselves with all relevant Ministry directives and ensure full implementation. Ignorance of an existing policy will not be accepted as an excuse for non-compliance,' the commissioner said. Adamu promised that the ministry would strengthen monitoring, supervision and quality assurance activities across schools in the state to ensure that the policies are implemented at the school level.