The Rivers State Ministry of Education has issued a statement denying allegations that it authorised a proposed student enrollment fee of N35,000 and N38,000 for boys and girls, respectively.

The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mrs. Ndidi Chikanele Utchay, clarified that she did not authorise any letter circulating online and on some radio stations, and the information contained in it should be treated as false and baseless.

According to a statement signed by Emmanuel Evans Dappa, Director of Administration, Ministry of Education, Rivers State, on September 15, 2025, the ministry reiterated its commitment to implementing the state government’s free education policy and urged principals to refrain from collecting such fees from students.

Anyone caught collecting these fees will face consequences.

“The Director of Secondary Education, Mrs. Alua Adiela, did not sign the letter, and the ministry believes it is the work of mischief-makers.

“The ministry urges parents and students to disregard the letter and report any attempts to collect unauthorised fees to the relevant authorities,” the ministry said.

The ministry warned that principals who collect unauthorised fees will face consequences, emphasising its commitment to ensuring that students are not exploited.