The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has vowed strict disciplinary action against officials responsible for the unauthorized closure of schools in the FCT.
Barr. Wike issued the warning on Wednesday while addressing journalists after inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects in Guzape II District, Cadastral Zone A11, Abuja.
Expressing shock and disappointment over the unapproved school closure directive, the Minister revealed that the Mandate Secretary for Education, Danlami Hayyo, has been placed on indefinite suspension following the incident.
“I was watching television last night and saw a news scroll that the FCTA had directed schools to shut down, and I couldn’t believe it. I had to call the Mandate Secretary of Education, and he could not provide any explanation. A circular was issued to schools without our approval,” Barr. Wike stated.
He emphasized that security agencies were working round the clock to ensure the safety of lives and property in the nation’s capital. “You can imagine how people would take such a decision without the head of the place knowing. It’s unfortunate… Heads have to roll. We will not forgive anyone involved,” he added.
The Minister dismissed suggestions that the school closures were precautionary, stressing that even he could not make such a decision without informing the President. He confirmed that directors involved in the action would face sanctions under Civil Service rules.
