The Rivers State Ministry of Education has launched an investigation into reports that 16 female students of Government Comprehensive High School, Taabaa, in Khana Local Government Area, were allegedly selected for forced virginity testing.
According to the ministry, individuals claiming to represent a traditional institution reportedly visited the school under the guise of offering scholarships and exercise books before allegedly selecting the students for the controversial exercise.
The reported incident, said to have occurred on September 17, 2026, reportedly sparked objections and a peaceful protest by students.
In a statement dated October 22, the ministry condemned the allegations, describing them as serious concerns involving the dignity, privacy and fundamental rights of schoolchildren.
The ministry stressed that no individual, traditional institution, community body or private organisation has the authority to subject students to virginity testing or any form of abuse.
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It also warned that educational assistance, including scholarships and learning materials, must never be used as a condition for practices that compromise students’ safety and rights.
The ministry confirmed that investigations were underway to establish the facts and identify those involved, adding that appropriate action would be taken against anyone found culpable, including possible referrals to relevant authorities.
Furthermore, schools across Rivers State were directed to protect students from degrading, coercive and invasive practices, regardless of whether they were presented as cultural traditions, disciplinary measures or community development initiatives.
The ministry assured the affected students, their parents and guardians that their concerns were being taken seriously, reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity and welfare of every student.
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