The Rivers State Government has launched an investigation into allegations that 16 female students were selected for virginity testing at Government Comprehensive High School, Taabaa, in Khana Local Government Area.
The controversy emerged after school authorities and a child-rights advocacy group raised concerns over the alleged practice, which reportedly occurred on September 17, 2026.
According to a report submitted by the school’s management, the traditional ruler of Taabaa and members of his council allegedly visited the school and selected the girls under the guise of providing scholarships and exercise books.
The alleged exercise reportedly triggered objections from students, who later staged a peaceful protest against the practice.
School staff also alleged that teachers who challenged the exercise faced threats, including threats of dismissal and assassination. The school further accused individuals allegedly linked to the traditional leadership of destroying crops on its farmland.
The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria) has called for an independent investigation into the allegations, urging the state government to protect the affected students and school staff from possible intimidation.
However, the traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Mene M.S.K. Nule, denied that the students were subjected to medical virginity tests.
According to reports, Nule said he introduced what he described as a “virginity roll call” in 2020 as a response to concerns about alleged sexual misconduct involving teachers. He maintained that the initiative was intended to encourage students to concentrate on their education and avoid early sexual activity.
The monarch also denied the allegations of misconduct and described them as an attempt to damage his reputation.
In a statement announcing the investigation, the Rivers State Ministry of Education condemned the alleged incident, stressing that no traditional institution, community body or private organisation had the right to subject students to coercive or degrading practices.
The ministry said educational support, including scholarships and learning materials, must be provided without conditions that compromise students’ safety, dignity or fundamental rights.
It also directed schools across the state to uphold child-protection standards and prevent students from being subjected to invasive practices under the guise of cultural traditions or educational assistance.
The investigation is expected to establish what happened and determine whether any individuals should face further action.
The controversy has renewed concerns about the protection of girls in schools and the need to ensure that cultural practices do not infringe on children’s rights.
