Ondo warns students against street roaming during school hours

Akure, Ondo – In a renewed push to restore discipline and elevate the state's education sector, the Ondo State Government has issued a stern warning to students, urging them to cease roaming the streets during school hours.

The directive comes amid intensified monitoring efforts just one week into the new 2025/2026 academic session, with officials vowing to enforce strict measures against truancy.

The announcement was highlighted by Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, the state's Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, during ongoing school inspections in the Southern Senatorial District.

Speaking on the first day of the session, Ajibefun emphasized the government's zero-tolerance policy, stating, “We will bring back the good old days; we will instill discipline in our schools. It is not negotiable. We won’t condone our students roaming the streets; any student caught after 8 a.m. will face the full wrath of the law.”

He called on parents and guardians to collaborate in upholding these standards, aiming to reposition Ondo State's education system as a model of excellence.

This warning aligns with broader reforms under Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa's administration, which has prioritized educational oversight since schools resumed on September 16, 2025.

The Ministry of Education has deployed monitoring teams across public and private institutions to ensure compliance with the academic calendar and curb practices that undermine learning.

In a related development today, the government sanctioned two secondary school principals for collecting unauthorized fees and items from students, underscoring its commitment to eradicating exploitative behaviors in the sector.

Ajibefun reiterated that no one, including unregistered private school operators, would be allowed to sabotage these initiatives, directing all such entities to seek immediate approval from the ministry.

Education stakeholders have welcomed the move, viewing it as a proactive step to combat rising truancy rates often linked to socio-economic challenges and inadequate supervision.

However, concerns linger about the potential impact on vulnerable students from low-income families, prompting calls for complementary support programs like free transportation and counseling services.

As the ministry ramps up patrols and surveillance, the onus now falls on students, educators, and families to align with the vision of a disciplined and thriving educational landscape in Ondo State.

Violations could lead to counseling sessions, parental summons, or further disciplinary actions, as seen in similar crackdowns in neighboring state like Oyo.