Ebola In Nigeria: House Of Reps Wants Postponement of Schools’ Sept 22 Resumption Date

In efforts to contain the world deadliest disease, Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Nigeria, The House of Representatives Tuesday said it had directed its Committee on Education to review the September 22 resumption date for private and public primary/secondary schools in the country. The Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Victor Ogene, who conveyed the position of the House in Abuja, said there was still apprehension among parents and guardians over the Federal Government’s decision to change the earlier resumption date of October 13 to September 22. It will be recalled that the Minister of Education, Mr. Ibrahim Shekarau, had earlier stated that the October 13 resumption date was to give health officers enough time to bring the EVD under control. But, Ogene said the leadership of the House was concerned over the fresh protests by the public, especially parents and guardians. He added that the House asked the committee to look into the matter urgently “in the overall interest of the pupils and students, parents and guardian and the general well-being of the entire country.” Ogene said, “You will recall that upon the outbreak of the dreaded Ebola virus disease in Nigeria, the House Committee on Health rose up to the occasion by interfacing with the health authorities – the result of which is the positive containment efforts and call-off of the strike by doctors in the country.” However, he noted that considering the fact that some persons were still under surveillance, the House felt it had the responsibility to ensure the safety of children. The lawmaker said the committee would come up with recommendations on the appropriate and safe date to re-open the schools. He added that on September 8, a group, Africa Health, Human and Social Development Information Service, had advised against the re-opening of the schools. The group had warned that re-opening schools now could put the lives of over 80 million school children and teachers at risk