The Mayor of Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State, Hon. Innocent Uruapka, has called on public and private schools in the council area to strengthen disciplinary measures and improve security protocols following the reported disappearance of two pupils.
Speaking during a meeting with heads of public and private schools at the Council Headquarters in Okpuala Ngwa on Wednesday, Uruapka said the growing decline in discipline among pupils and students has become a source of concern, stressing that appropriate corrective measures are necessary to restore order in schools.
The mayor linked the rise in indiscipline to the absence of commensurate punishment for violations of school rules and urged school authorities to enforce disciplinary actions that are fair, proportionate and aimed at correcting erring students.
He cited the recent incident involving two pupils who reportedly went missing after boarding an unidentified commercial tricycle shortly after school hours, describing the development as a wake-up call for schools, parents and the wider community to strengthen child safety measures.
According to him, improved discipline would help ensure that pupils remain within school premises until the appropriate time for dismissal and conduct themselves responsibly on their way home.
As part of efforts to enhance security, Uruapka directed school heads to organise meetings with parents and guardians to make the collection of underage pupils from school compulsory, describing the measure as a critical safeguard against future incidents.
He also urged schools to remain vigilant by working closely with local vigilante groups and the Nigeria Police, while promptly reporting any suspicious persons or activities around school environments.
Commending teachers for their commitment to nurturing future leaders, the mayor praised Governor Alex Otti’s administration for sustaining relative peace and security across Abia State.
In his remarks, the Education Secretary of Isiala Ngwa North, Dr. Larry Charles, lauded the mayor for maintaining an open relationship with education stakeholders and encouraged school administrators to strengthen compliance with existing regulations.
He advised schools not to organise ceremonies or public events without approval from the local government and warned against granting access to unfamiliar visitors within school premises.
Dr. Charles also cautioned teachers and school authorities against allowing pupils or students to receive unsolicited gifts, including cash, from strangers.
The teachers present at the meeting welcomed the engagement and pledged to relay the resolutions to parents and guardians while working closely with relevant authorities to improve discipline and security in schools.
Special prayers were also offered for the safe return of the two missing pupils.
