The member representing Ohafia South constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Kalu Mba Nwoke, has urged parents and guardians to comply with the state’s compulsory free basic education policy. His appeal follows the government’s decision to arrest and prosecute parents who fail to send their children or wards to school. Speaking in Umuahia, Nwoke emphasized that the Abia State government is committed to using education as a tool for development and will ensure strict enforcement of the policy.

Nwoke, who also serves as the House Committee Chairman on Environment and Urban Renewal, commended Governor Alex Otti for introducing the initiative, describing it as a milestone achievement. He highlighted the policy’s potential to boost literacy rates and empower children with the knowledge needed to secure a better future. The legislator called on communities to support the government’s efforts to ensure that every child in the state receives a quality education.

The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, had previously announced the policy last year after a State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Otti. According to Kanu, the policy is backed by the Abia State Child’s Law of 2006, which makes it an offense for parents or guardians to deny their children access to education. He reiterated that education is free up to the junior secondary school level, and as such, there is no justification for children being out of school.

The enforcement of this policy aligns with Abia State’s broader vision to improve education standards and reduce the number of out-of-school children. Stakeholders in the state have been urged to collaborate with the government in ensuring full compliance, as education remains a fundamental right for every child.