Rivers investigates alleged virginity testing of 16 schoolgirls

The Rivers State Government has launched an investigation into allegations that 16 female students of Government Comprehensive High School, Taabaa, in Khana Local Government Area, were selected for forced virginity testing.

The Ministry of Education said in a statement released on Thursday that people allegedly acting on behalf of a traditional institution visited the school on September 17 and selected the students under the pretext of providing scholarships and exercise books.

The ministry said the incident reportedly sparked objections and a peaceful protest by students, raising concerns about the protection of children in schools.

Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Mina Tele-Ikuru, described the allegations as a serious threat to the students’ “dignity, privacy and fundamental rights”, stressing that no traditional institution, community group or individual has the authority to subject students to virginity testing or other forms of abuse.

She said scholarships and other educational support must be provided without conditions that endanger students or violate their rights.

The ministry also directed schools across Rivers State to enforce child-protection standards and prevent degrading, coercive or invasive practices carried out in the name of culture, educational support or community development.

It assured the affected students and their families that the allegations are being taken seriously and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the safety and rights of every student in the state.