The Ondo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Igbekele Ajibefun, has ordered the dissolution of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) of St. Louis’ Primary School, Ondo, following prolonged disputes between the PTA and the school management.
The crisis, which occurred in Ondo West Local Government Area of the state, had earlier prompted the state government to shut down the school.
The decision to dissolve the PTA was announced at the end of a reconciliatory meeting held within the school premises, attended by members of the school board, parents, PTA executives, officials of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, and the Education Secretary of the Ondo Catholic Diocese, Rev. Father Valentine Omolakin.
Opening the meeting, the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Reverend Jude Arogundade, represented by Rev. Father Omolakin, said the gathering was convened “to reconcile the school management and the PTA.”
He explained that the essence of the meeting was “to bridge the gaps and allow the institution to move forward.”
Arogundade commended the Ministry of Education for its intervention, describing the reconciliation opportunity as “top-notch and timely.”
Speaking on behalf of the commissioner, the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Akindele Ige, said the government’s intention was not to apportion blame but to restore harmony among stakeholders.
“We are partners in progress. As administrators, we understand the complexities of school administration,” he said.
“We are not here to blame anyone, but to interact.”
Dr. Ige further praised the Catholic Church’s long-standing role in education, stating:
“The Catholic Church has an esteemed reputation regarding educational development in Nigeria and has long been a vanguard in the sector.”
He added that the ministry was alarmed when the crisis erupted.
“The ministry was deeply concerned when this situation arose, which is why we are here to listen to all parties — the headmistress and the PTA — and allow for constructive reactions.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, the commissioner underscored the importance of the PTA in school administration, but clarified that its role is strictly advisory.
“The PTA is a vital part of the school system, but it must operate within its established boundaries,” he stated.
Consequently, Professor Ajibefun directed that the school’s PTA be dissolved, stressing that due process must be strictly followed in carrying out the dissolution.
He also advised the head teacher to maintain open and proactive communication with all stakeholders, especially the PTA and the Zonal Education Office.
On security matters, the commissioner clarified that:
“Security is a classified administrative responsibility handled exclusively by the school manager,”
while noting that the head teacher should still be open to suggestions from the PTA where necessary.
