By Our Correspondent
The National Examinations Council (NECO) has refuted allegations describing Government Secondary School, Olowa, in Kogi State, as a “miracle centre,” following the recent abduction of students and examination officials during the ongoing Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
The examination body said the school is a duly approved NECO examination centre and warned against the spread of unverified claims that could damage the institution’s reputation and reduce public confidence in the examination process.
The controversy emerged after the Kogi State Police Command reportedly referred to the school as a “miracle centre” while providing updates on the investigation into the abduction. The Kogi State Government also raised concerns over the location and operation of the examination centre, prompting public debate about its status.
Responding to the claims, NECO said the centre had received official approval to conduct its examinations and was operating in line with the council’s guidelines. The council added that no evidence has been presented to support allegations that the school was involved in examination malpractice or operated outside NECO’s regulations.
NECO called on the public to avoid speculation and allow security agencies to complete their investigations before drawing conclusions that could unfairly damage the image of the school and the examination body.
The incident occurred when armed men reportedly invaded the school while candidates were writing their examinations, abducting several students, examination officials, and the school principal. The attack has drawn widespread concern and renewed calls for improved security around schools, particularly during national examinations.
Security agencies have since launched rescue operations, with reports indicating that one of the victims has been rescued, while efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining abductees.
Education stakeholders have condemned the attack, describing it as a serious threat to the country’s education system. They urged governments at all levels to strengthen security around schools to ensure that students can sit for public examinations without fear.
NECO said it remains committed to conducting credible examinations across the country and will continue to cooperate with security agencies investigating the incident. The council also expressed hope that all those still in captivity would be rescued safely.
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a reminder of the security challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector and the importance of verifying facts before making public statements that could have lasting consequences for institutions and individuals.
