Rivers Investigates Alleged Forced Virginity Testing Of 16 Schoolgirls

The Rivers State Government has commenced an investigation into the alleged forced virginity testing of 16 female students at Government Comprehensive High School, Taabaa, in Khana Local Government Area of the state.

The state Ministry of Education disclosed this in a statement issued by its Permanent Secretary, Dr Mina Tele Ikuru, condemning the alleged incident as a serious violation of the dignity, privacy and fundamental rights of schoolchildren.

According to the statement, some individuals allegedly acting on behalf of a traditional institution in the community visited the school on Thursday, September 17, 2026, to select female students for virginity testing under the guise of offering scholarships and exercise books.

The statement said 16 female students were allegedly selected for the exercise, prompting objections and a peaceful protest by the students.

The ministry described the allegations as disturbing, stressing that no individual, traditional institution, community body or private organisation had the authority to subject students to virginity testing or any other form of abuse.

It added that educational assistance, including scholarships and exercise books, must be provided transparently and without conditions that compromise the safety, dignity or fundamental rights of beneficiaries.

The statement said the ministry had begun investigating the report to establish the facts and would take appropriate action against any person or group found culpable.

It added that the matter could be referred to relevant authorities for further action, depending on the findings of the investigation.

The ministry also cautioned traditional institutions, community bodies and individuals against engaging in activities involving the selection, examination or testing of female students for virginity, either directly or indirectly.

It further directed all schools in Rivers State to maintain the highest standards of child protection and ensure that no student was subjected to degrading, coercive or invasive practices under the guise of cultural traditions, scholarship programmes, disciplinary measures or community development initiatives.

The ministry assured the affected students, their parents and guardians, and the wider school community that their concerns were being taken seriously.

It reiterated its commitment to protecting the safety, dignity and fundamental rights of every student at all times.