Opening of Schools: Lawmakers Raise Concerns Over The Safety Of Students, Insist Decision Not In The Best Interest Of Nigerians.

Opening of Schools: Lawmakers Raise Concerns Over The Safety Of Students, Insist Decision Not In The Best Interest Of Nigerians.

By Eriacy Confidence
Coneri Magazine

Two lawmakers in Obubra Local Government Area, Hon. Mrs Maria Imoh Denis, Councillor representing Ochon Ward and Hon. Mrs Glory Okpa, councillor representing Ofumbongha/Yala ward have raised concerns over the recent decision of the Federal Government to reopen schools as part of the gradual relaxation of lock down in the country, describing it as a harsh decision against the interest of the public.

Mrs Maria Denis Imoh maintained that reopening schools at sensitive period in the fight against the dreaded corona virus pandemic is not only suicidal but an attempt to bury the nation in bloodbath. The Council representing the largest wards in Obubra, insisted that closing schools temporarily is the best measure towards containing the virus.

In her words:
"Opening some or all of the schools in the country in this critical time in the fight against the dreaded corona virus pandemic is suicidal. For us to win the war against this scourge, we must allow students to remain in their homes for now"

Similarly,  the councillor representing Ochon Ward, Hon. Glory Okpa while commending the FG' efforts in providing palliatives for vulnerable Nigerians during the lock down, urged the Government to intensify efforts in containing the virus before contemplating the reopening of schools as doing so now would endanger lives of the students and pupils. She commended Gov. Ben Ayade's effort in preventing the spread of the virus into the state while urging him to sustain the momentum.

"...I commend Gov. Ayade's efforts in preventing the spread of the virus into Cross River State. I urge him to sustain the momentum"

However, the Presidency has made clarifications on school resumption following the gradual relaxation of the lockdown.

President Buhari had ordered a gradual relaxation of the lockdown starting from Monday next week but was silent on the reopening of schools.

However, Buhari’s spokesperson, Femi Adesina while featuring on TVC, said schools may re-open for those about to take exams.

Adesina said candidates about to take West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and other examinations may be allowed to go back to school.

“If you look at Germany, they gradually reduced their lockdown by opening the schools for those who have exams.

“Same may apply here as those who are to write WAEC and take examinations may be allowed to resume to take their exams.

“The Presidential Task Force will be the ones to decide on when to re-open,” Adesina said on Tuesday.