The Anambra State Government has suspended headteachers of nine state-owned schools for two weeks following reports of low attendance of pupils and students on Monday.

Their suspension was announced on Monday by the Chairman of the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr Vera Nwadinobi, during an assessment visit to the affected schools to monitor attendance.

Nwadinobi expressed dissatisfaction after she observed low turnout of pupils and students despite the presence of teachers.

She said the assessment exercise was part of monitoring activities in schools across the state to ascertain compliance with the state’s Executive Order abolishing the closure of schools on Mondays over sit-at-home.

It was gathered that in some of the schools visited, no pupil or student was found, while in others, only between two and five pupils were present.

The affected schools visited include Union Primary School, Ukpo, in Dunukofia LGA, where only three pupils were found.

At Walter Eze Secondary School, Ukpo, in Dunukofia LGA, no student was found.

At Aguoji Primary School, Ifitedunu, in Dunukofia LGA, five pupils were found.

At Hilltop Primary School, Ifitedunu, in Dunukofia LGA, three pupils were found.

At Chukwurah Primary School, Abatete, in Idemili North LGA, no pupil was found.

At Union Primary School, Eziowelle, in Idemili North LGA, only three pupils were found.

Umunebo Primary School, Nteje, in Oyi LGA, where no pupil was found.

At Central School, Atani, in Ogbaru LGA, no pupil was found.

Speaking further, Nwadinobi said, “Following the findings, Mr Governor has approved the suspension of the headteachers of the affected schools for two weeks.

“The headteachers have been directed to immediately hand over to the next most senior officers to ensure uninterrupted administration.

“The action underscores the state government’s zero tolerance for negligence and its firm commitment to restoring discipline, accountability, and full academic engagement in public schools.”

PUNCH Online, on January 24, reported that the Anambra State Government issued an Executive Order abolishing the closure of schools on Mondays over sit-at-home.

It warned that any teacher or non-tutorial staff who fails to comply would either receive 20 per cent of his or her salary or forfeit it entirely.

This was conveyed in a letter dated January 22, 2026, and signed by the Board Secretary, Universal Basic Education Board, Loveline Mgbemena. (The PUNCH)