The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Taraba State, Dr Augustina Godwin has ordered an immediate investigation into allegations of extortion of students for NECO biometric registration in some secondary schools across the state.

This was made known during her one-on-one interactions at the affected schools which include Government Science Secondary School and Government College Jalingo, where reports indicate that students were allegedly compelled to pay unauthorized fees under the guise of biometric capture for the National Examinations Council (NECO).

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner described the allegations as “disturbing and unacceptable,” stressing that the Ministry maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any form of exploitation of students and parents under the free and compulsory education policy of His Excellency, Dr Agbu Kefas.

To ensure a thorough and transparent investigation, the Commissioner announced the constitution of a seven-man committee headed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alh. Idris A. Goje. The committee has been mandated to ascertain the facts surrounding the allegations, identify those involved, and recommend appropriate actions.

She noted that the ministry will not condone any act that undermines the integrity of free education system or places undue financial burden on students or parents. Anyone found culpable will face strict disciplinary measures.

She further assured the public that the committee would work diligently and submit its report within the stipulated timeframe, after which necessary sanctions would be applied to erring officials.

Parents, guardians, and stakeholders have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with the investigation, while also reporting any similar incidents to the appropriate authorities.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to upholding transparency, accountability, and the protection of students’ welfare across all public schools in the state.