As schools in Cross River State resume for the first term of the 2025/2026 academic session, the state government has warned principals across the 18 local government areas to desist from collecting illegal fees in public secondary schools.

The Executive Chairman of the Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Elder Esu EsuEsu, issued the warning while addressing journalists in his office in Calabar on Monday.

He noted that the directive became necessary given the current economic challenges faced by parents and guardians.

EsuEsu warned that any principal caught collecting fees or levies beyond the amounts officially approved by the government would face sanctions in line with civil service rules.

He urged parents and guardians to promptly report any case of extortion or sharp practices disguised as fee collection to the relevant authorities for disciplinary action.

Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to providing quality education, he commended Governor Bassey Otu for creating an enabling and conducive teaching and learning environment across the state.

According to him, the government has provided infrastructure such as standard classrooms, desks and chairs, teaching aids, fully equipped laboratories, and water facilities in schools across the state.

EsuEsu further called for strict adherence to the academic curriculum and warned against staff absenteeism, negligence, and insubordination.
“Commitment and dedication to service remain the key to a brighter future for our children. The government and its partners are investing heavily in the future of the Cross River child,” he said.

He added that the board has been directed to intensify supervision and will conduct unscheduled visits to schools across the state.

“Workers found wanting shall be dealt with accordingly,” he warned, urging principals and teachers to take their work seriously.