Falana Labels Fee Increase Illegal
Femi Falana, Nigerian human rights lawyer, condemned Lagos State government’s boarding school fee hike as illegal under child rights laws. The fees for public schools have reportedly surged from ₦35,000 to ₦100,000 per term.
Contravention of Child Rights Laws
Falana declared the fee increase illegal, asserting it violates the Child Rights Act and Lagos State Child Rights Law. He emphasized that under these laws, every child is entitled to free and compulsory education from primary to junior secondary school. The government’s fee hike infringes upon children’s rights to free education as mandated by federal and state legislation. The imposition of a ₦100,000 fee on students in junior secondary schools is illegal,” he stated.
Impact on Workers and Families
Falana highlighted the financial burden on families caused by the fee increase surpassing the ₦70,000 minimum wage. He noted that a worker can no longer afford to sponsor even one child in any Lagos State secondary school. He emphasized that the fee hike places education further out of reach for many Nigerians.
Legal Action Planned
Falana announced plans to challenge the fee increase in court. He affirmed he will challenge the illegal imposition of prohibitive fees on junior secondary students in the High Courts. He urged other stakeholders to support the legal battle to uphold children’s right to education.
Calls for Government Reconsideration
Human rights advocates and concerned citizens are calling on the Lagos State government to reconsider the fee hike. They argue that accessible education is crucial for the nation’s development and that policies should reflect the economic realities of its citizens.
Broader Implications for Education Rights
This development raises concerns about the state of education rights in Nigeria. Advocates warn that without adherence to existing laws protecting free and compulsory education, the country risks widening the gap in educational inequality.
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