The Lagos State government has issued a stern warning to schools found operating discriminatory admission policies based on children’s nationality or skin color. This comes in response to allegations against the Indian Language School in Ilupeju, Lagos, which purportedly practices a closed-door policy, barring non-Indian children from admission.

Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, the Commissioner for Basic Education, emphasized that no registered school in Lagos has the authority to deny admission based on nationality, color, or any other discriminatory criteria. Officials from the Ministry of Education have initiated investigations into the allegations against the Indian Language School, with further actions to be taken pending the outcome of the probe.

Tolani-Balogun highlighted that such practices contravene the Child Rights Act, which the Lagos State government has adopted. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring equal access to education for all children, warning that if the investigations confirm the school’s discriminatory practices, it will face closure. The government’s stance underscores its dedication to upholding the rights of all children and promoting inclusivity in education across the state.