In a decisive move to curb exploitative commercial practices within the educational sector, the Benue State Government has sealed two private schools—Orenda and Opal Schools. The administrative shutdown follows investigations indicating that both institutions coerced parents into purchasing textbooks directly from the school management, an act that directly contravenes established state education policy.
The enforcement exercise was carried out by state regulatory officials targeting institutions that defy educational guidelines designed to safeguard parents and guardians from unwarranted financial burdens. According to state authorities, the decision to close the facilities came after complaints surfaced revealing that the schools made it compulsory for pupils to acquire instructional materials exclusively from school authorities, effectively denying families the choice to source books elsewhere.
Across Nigeria, the practice of requiring parents to buy specialized workbooks, uniforms, and standard textbooks directly from school premises has drawn widespread criticism. Educational reform advocates and parent groups have repeatedly pointed out that such institutional mandates often lead to inflated prices compared to rates in the open market. Furthermore, these practices prevent families from reusing books across siblings or purchasing affordable second-hand copies—a critical relief mechanism in times of economic tightening.
Recognizing the strain such policies place on working families, the Benue State Ministry of Education had previously issued clear guidelines prohibiting private schools from turning the provision of textbooks into a mandatory commercial monopoly. The policy aims to level the playing field, ensuring that learning remains affordable and accessible while preventing schools from functioning primarily as retail outlets at the expense of educational integrity.
The sealing of Orenda and Opal Schools serves as an unequivocal warning to private school proprietors across Benue State that disregard for government directives will not be tolerated. Regulators emphasized that while the state appreciates the contributions of private proprietors in expanding educational access, every school operating within the state must comply with standard operational frameworks. Those who impose unauthorized fees, compulsory merchandise sales, or arbitrary financial obligations risk severe administrative sanctions, including permanent suspension of their operating approvals.
Authorities have urged other private institutions to review their administrative and commercial policies to ensure full alignment with state regulations. Meanwhile, parents and guardians have been encouraged to report any instances where school administrators demand mandatory in-house retail purchases or enforce unapproved charges. As both schools remain shuttered pending resolution with the regulatory ministry, the government has reiterated its commitment to defending the rights of families and preserving standard ethical practices across all levels of basic education.