The directive was issued on behalf of the Bishop of Abakaliki, Most Rev. Peter Nworie Chukwu, through a statement signed by the Director of Catholic Education, Rev. Fr. Edward Inyanwachi.
According to the statement, all school managers have been instructed to shut down such schools without delay. The diocese emphasized that no Catholic school is permitted to operate within parish halls or church buildings.
Parents whose children are affected by the directive have been advised to enroll them in nearby approved Catholic schools.
School managers were also directed to ensure the prompt and orderly refund of all fees paid by parents. Additionally, teachers employed in the affected schools are to be formally disengaged in accordance with diocesan procedures.
Fr. Inyanwachi explained that the decision became necessary to comply with government regulations and to avoid the embarrassment that could result from enforcement actions against illegal schools.
“This is a wakeup call for us in our school apostolate,” the statement read. “We must not succumb to pressure from parents or guardians. Rather, we must follow due process in establishing schools, backed by adequate planning and proper funding.”
The diocesan Education Department also directed that all documents and financial records related to the affected schools be submitted to the Education Office without delay.
Furthermore, all funds belonging to the closed schools are to be deposited in Umunnachi Microfinance Bank, with statements of account attached to the submitted documentation.
The Diocese warned that strict compliance with the directive is mandatory.
