The Rivers State Ministry of Education has commenced an investigation into reports of alleged forced virginity testing of 16 female students of Government Comprehensive High School, Taabaa, in Khana Local Government Area of the state.
The ministry condemned the alleged incident, which reportedly involved members of a traditional institution in the community who allegedly visited the school to select female students for the exercise under the guise of offering scholarships and exercise books.
According to a press statement issued on Thursday, and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mina Tele Ikuru, on behalf of the Commissioner for Education, the incident allegedly occurred on September 17, 2026, when 16 female students were selected for the exercise, prompting objections and a peaceful protest by students.
The ministry described the allegations as serious and disturbing, noting that they concern the dignity, privacy and fundamental rights of schoolchildren.
It stressed that no individual, traditional institution, community body or private organisation has the authority to subject students to virginity testing or any other form of abuse.
The ministry added that educational assistance, including scholarships and exercise books, must be provided transparently and without conditions that compromise the safety, dignity or rights of beneficiaries.
It said the ongoing investigation would establish the facts surrounding the incident, adding that appropriate action, including referral to relevant authorities, would be taken against anyone found to be involved.
The ministry also cautioned traditional institutions, community bodies and individuals against engaging in activities involving the selection, examination or testing of female students for virginity, either directly or indirectly.
Furthermore, it directed all schools in Rivers State to maintain the highest standards of child protection and ensure that no student is subjected to degrading, coercive or invasive practices under the guise of cultural tradition, scholarship programmes, disciplinary measures or community development initiatives.
The ministry assured the affected students, their parents, guardians and the wider school community that their concerns were being taken seriously.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the safety, dignity and fundamental rights of every student in the state.
