Kwara State Issues Warning to Secondary School Principals on Extortion Practices

The Kwara State Government has issued a stern warning to principals of senior secondary schools to refrain from imposing unauthorized fees during the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) registration process.

Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, gave the warning on Tuesday at the launch of the registration exercise held at St. Anthony’s Secondary School, Ilorin. Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rebecca Olanrewaju Bake, he reiterated the administration’s commitment to affordable and quality education.

Olohungbebe emphasized that no extra charges beyond the Ministry-approved fee of N30,500—comprising N27,000 for entry, N1,500 for e-registration, and N2,000 administrative charges—would be tolerated. Principals were urged to engage Parents-Teachers Associations to educate parents on early registration benefits and penalties for late submission.

He stressed the importance of integrity and transparency, warning that any principal involved in irregularities would face strict disciplinary measures.

Appreciating the principals’ dedication, the Commissioner lauded their support for government educational policies and efforts in nurturing excellence. He also highlighted ongoing government initiatives including school rehabilitation, provision of learning materials, and improved teachers’ welfare under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

Director of Curriculum and Assessment, Sulaiman Ajape, called for professionalism in handling the registration, while ANCOPSS State President Comrade Mohammed Baba Saliu urged adherence to ministry directives and avoidance of malpractice.

The meeting, attended by education officials and principals from all 16 Local Government Areas, concluded with a strong commitment to uphold transparency and accountability in the administration of education in Kwara State.