Education Commissioner Bemoans Vandalization of Schools in Etche

Rivers State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, has expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of vandalisation and theft of property in primary and secondary schools within the Etche Local Government Area of the State. The Commissioner made this disclosure when the newly inaugurated executive members of Ogbakor Etche, led by their President-General, Dr. Silas Anyanwu, paid him a courtesy visit in his office recently.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Nwagor lamented that the systematic destruction of educational facilities, such as classroom desks, laboratory equipment, and power installations, by some misguided youths undermines the state government’s efforts to provide quality learning environments. He stressed that school infrastructure is built with public funds to benefit the children of the communities, and destroying them is akin to destroying the future of the younger generation. He called on stakeholders to take urgent actions to halt the trend.

Ogbakor Etche’s Sensitization Campaign

In his remarks, the President-General of Ogbakor Etche, Dr. Silas Anyanwu, explained that the socio-cultural group is deeply concerned about the rising tide of social vices in the locality. He announced that the organization has embarked on a robust sensitization campaign aimed at educating youths against drug abuse, cultism, vandalism, and other criminal activities that derail community progress.

“We cannot fold our arms and watch the facilities meant for the education of our children get destroyed. Ogbakor Etche is actively engaging community leaders, youth groups, and traditional institutions to foster a deep sense of ownership over public property,” Dr. Anyanwu stated. He promised that the body would work closely with security agencies and local vigilantes to safeguard schools across Etche.

A Call for Community Ownership and Collaboration

Dr. Nwagor commended Ogbakor Etche for their proactive steps in curbing youth restiveness and protecting educational resources. He urged other communities and socio-cultural groups across Rivers State to emulate the Ogbakor Etche initiative, asserting that community-led policing is the most effective shield against localized vandalism.

The Ministry of Education, he assured, remains open to strategic partnerships that will secure and improve the educational sector. He concluded by calling on parents to monitor their wards, emphasizing that the sustainable development of Etche depends heavily on the security and educational advancement of its youth.