The Ondo State Government through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has suspended 27 secondary school students indefinitely over allegations of gross misconduct.

The affected students, drawn from Oyemekun Grammar School, Aquinas College, and CAC Grammar School, Akure, have been prohibited from entering the school premises or participating in any school-related activities until further notice.

In a statement issued by the press officer of the ministry, Bisi Lawani, the permanent secretary, Dr Akindele Ige, personally visited the affected schools to enforce the suspensions.

According to Lawani, the permanent secretary revealed that the disciplinary action came despite repeated warnings and consultations with principals and other stakeholders aimed at curbing indiscipline in schools.

He noted that some students had persisted in engaging in unacceptable conduct that the ministry could no longer tolerate.

The statement read in parts, “During meetings with the principals, vice-principals, and heads of departments, Dr Ige emphasised the need to strengthen supervision, monitoring, and the enforcement of disciplinary measures within the schools.

“He expressed deep concern over the increasing incidence of bullying, fighting, truancy, and the circulation of indecent videos on social media, noting that such acts not only disrupt the learning environment but also tarnish the image of the state’s education sector.

“The Ministry maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards behaviours that undermine the integrity of our educational system. Schools are centres for character formation and academic excellence. The state government remains committed to ensuring that our schools are safe, disciplined, and conducive to learning.”

“Under the terms of the suspension, the affected students are prohibited from entering their respective school premises or participating in any school-related activities until further notice. Their cases are currently under review by the respective school disciplinary committees in collaboration with the Ministry.

Dr Ige further urged parents and guardians to play a more proactive role in monitoring their children’s activities. He said, “We encourage parents and guardians to partner with school authorities in guiding and monitoring their children, as the responsibility for nurturing discipline and good character is a shared one between the home and the school.

“He assured the public that the Ministry would continue its routine visits to schools to monitor compliance with established rules and regulations.

“The Permanent Secretary warned that, henceforth, any student found culpable of bullying, fighting, or other serious acts of misconduct will face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with established procedures.

“The ministry remains committed to promoting both discipline and the holistic development of every learner in the state’s public schools.”