The Abia State government has announced the closure of Emerald Schools for operating below the approved standard, which was alleged to have resulted in the death of a pupil some weeks ago.
Uche-Eme-Uche, the Abia State commissioner for education, in a statement, said that the closing of the school was a result of the ministry’s findings, which showed the school was operating below the stipulated standards set for the operation of private schools in the state, a situation according to him led to the unfortunate death of a pupil.
“Emerald Schools, located at Crystal Park Avenue, off Port Harcourt Road in Aba South Local Government Area, have been sealed and their operational approval is withdrawn.”
The commissioner instructed parents and guardians whose children or wards are attending the school, to withdraw them immediately.
“While the ministry regrets any inconvenience this may cause parents, it will continue to shoulder its responsibility of upholding the welfare and safety of Abia children as a top priority.
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“Any illegal attempt by any individual or group to reopen Emerald scools will attract the full wrath of the government. Please be properly guided.”
Recently, the Abia State Police command confirmed that David Jacob Etim, a 3-year-old pupil of the Emerald School, fell from the school building and died.
Consequently, the Abia State Ministry of Education has kicked off inspections of private schools in the state, intending to ascertain their conformity to accepted educational standards.
The statement revealed that the inspection and evaluation team from the state capital in Umuahia began the exercise on Tuesday, October 31, 2023.
