Ilorin, Nigeria – The Kwara State Government has taken disciplinary action against a teacher accused of assaulting a female National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member at Government Day Junior Secondary School, Kulende, Ilorin.
In a joint statement on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo-Kawu, and the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission, Mallam Tauheed Abubakar, announced the teacher’s demotion and transfer.
Incident Details
The incident occurred last Thursday when the corps member visited the school to collect her clearance letter. Reports indicate she was assaulted and stripped by some teachers for allegedly failing to greet them properly.
Following an investigation, Hajia Hamzat Fatimoh Nike, one of the teachers involved, was found guilty of misconduct, including fighting on duty, using foul language, and disrespecting the NYSC uniform.
Disciplinary Measures
A statement by the Press Secretary of the Teaching Service Commission, Bola Onile, confirmed the sanctions:
“The investigative panel found Hajia Hamzat Fatimoh Nike guilty of fighting on duty, using foul language, insubordination, and disrespecting the national identity represented by the corps members’ uniform.
“Her actions contravene public service rules. She has been demoted by two grade levels, transferred out of the school, and will undergo counselling sessions.”
The government condemned the teacher’s behaviour and reassured the NYSC and the public of its commitment to preventing abuse and upholding service standards.
NYSC Withdraws Corps Members
In response to the incident, the NYSC temporarily withdrew all corps members from both the junior and senior arms of the school. NYSC State Public Relations Officer Oladipo Morakinyo confirmed the withdrawal, citing the need to ensure the safety of its members.
Government Reactions
The Kwara State Government expressed regret over the incident, with assurances that the teacher’s actions do not reflect the values of the state. Authorities have committed to improving teacher training on ethics and professional conduct.
“The state government will not tolerate abuse of any kind. Such incidents will not be allowed to recur,” the statement emphasized.
Teachers across the state were urged to uphold their duties responsibly and in accordance with established guidelines.
The government’s prompt action is seen as a step toward restoring confidence in the state’s education system and ensuring the safety of all stakeholders.