Workers Protest: Schools in Rivers Still Closed

The three federal unity schools in Rivers State have not reopened for the 2026/2027 academic session due to a protest by workers.

The schools affected are Federal Government College, Port Harcourt; Federal Government Girls’ College, Abuloma, and Federal Science and Technology College, Ahoada.

The schools stayed closed on Monday and Tuesday while students and parents came for the planned resumption.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the closure happened after a protest by labor unions against the federal government’s decision to hand over King’s College, Lagos, to its alumni association.

The protesting unions also closed federal unity schools across the country, affecting the planned start of academic activities.

Ominini Bibi, the chairman of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) at Federal Government Girls’ College, Abuloma, confirmed this in a statement sent to NAN on Tuesday.

Mr Bibi said union members stopped students, parents, and guardians from entering the school on Monday.

He expressed sadness over the situation and asked parents and guardians for understanding and patience.

“The closure of the school gate is because of a peaceful protest by the School Staff Union over an internal issue affecting Unity Schools nationwide.

“Because of this, access to the school has been temporarily restricted,” he said.

Mr Bibi apologized for the late notice, explaining that the PTA waited for confirmed news before telling parents.

He said this was to stop the spread of unconfirmed information and prevent unnecessary worry among parents and guardians.

According to him, the PTA executive committee is watching the situation closely and is committed to the welfare, safety, and academic interests of students.

“We are hopeful that this matter will be resolved amicably and that normal activities, including students’ resumption, will start soon,” he said.

Mr Bibi urged parents and guardians to stay calm and patient while efforts are made to resolve the situation.

He also apologized for the trouble caused by the closure and assured parents that the PTA is working hard to find a peaceful and timely solution.