By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), Anambra State branch, has called on Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo to lift the suspension of some principals and head teachers sanctioned over low pupil and student attendance on Mondays.

In a statement endorsed by its Chairman, Evangelist Comrade Vincent Ezekwueme, and Secretary, Chidi Mbah, the group described the disciplinary action as unjust, arguing that school administrators should not be punished for circumstances beyond their control. “Punishing principals and head teachers for an offence not committed is a monumental injustice,” the statement said.

While acknowledging the importance of education, the CLO noted that teachers and school heads lack the authority to compel attendance, urging the state government to adopt alternative measures. It appealed to Governor Soludo and the Chairperson of the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board, Vera Nwadinobi, to recall the affected officials and convene meetings with parents to address safety concerns.

The organisation further urged the state government, the Universal Basic Education Board, and the Post Primary Schools Service Commission to implement confidence-building initiatives to reassure parents and guardians about security in the state.

According to the CLO, many parents keep their children at home on Mondays due to insecurity and fear, making it unfair to sanction school authorities for poor attendance. The group stressed the need for collaboration among government agencies, educators, and families to restore confidence and guarantee a safe learning environment.

The statement concluded with a call for justice and fairness, maintaining that a supportive and security-focused approach is essential to improving school attendance and stabilising the education system in Anambra State.