Parents in Abia State will be subject to prosecution if they do not enroll their children in school, beginning January 1, 2025. This announcement came from the Abia State government, with Information Commissioner Okey Kanu sharing the update during a press briefing at Government House in Umuahia. The announcement followed the State Executive Council meeting, led by Governor Alex Otti.
Kanu highlighted that this measure is part of the state’s educational reforms, noting that poverty will no longer be considered an acceptable reason for not obtaining free basic education in Abia. He urged parents to take advantage of the tuition-free policy, warning that those who fail to comply will face prosecution under the Abia State Child’s Law of 2006.
“Under the Abia State Child’s Law 2006, it is now a crime for parents not to send their children to school in Abia State,” Kanu stated. “Education is free up to Junior Secondary School, so there is no valid reason for parents to keep their children out of school. From January 1, 2025, non-compliant parents will face legal consequences.”
Kanu also confirmed that the relocation of the Umuahia campus of Abia State University to the main Uturu campus is final, though efforts are underway to address stakeholders’ concerns. Additionally, Governor Otti has instructed the Works Commissioner to repair the deteriorating Osisioma flyover, built by the prior administration, to ensure the safety of Abians and other road users.