The Abia State Government has warned public school teachers against all forms of misconduct, dereliction, and negligence of duty, stressing that such actions will henceforth attract severe consequences.

The Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board, Lady Lydia Onuoha, issued the warning on Tuesday at her office in Umuahia.

She expressed concern over the growing trend of irregular attendance and absenteeism among some public school teachers, despite the administration of Governor Alex Otti’s sustained efforts to improve their welfare. She warned that such behaviour would attract disciplinary measures, including queries, suspension, and dismissal, in accordance with the Public Service Rules and Teachers’ Code of Conduct.

“The full weight of public service rules shall be invoked where necessary, and the government will not hesitate to act in the interest of the children and the future of our state,” she said.

Onuoha described the situation as unacceptable, calling it a gross breach of professional ethics and a betrayal of the trust placed in educators to shape the minds of future generations.

She expressed satisfaction that Otti’s administration has prioritised the welfare of teachers, noting that salaries are now paid promptly and consistently.

She further highlighted that long-overdue promotions have been approved, leave allowances paid, and the 27.5% Teachers Special Salary has been implemented.

“The 27.5% Teachers Special Salary (TSS) has been actualised, and over 20% of the Abia State 2025 budget has been allocated to the education sector — one of the highest in the country — demonstrating strong commitment and sincerity of purpose,” she said.

The ASUBEB Chair also announced that the Board would be launching a statewide monitoring and enforcement strategy in collaboration with Local Government Education Authorities and School-Based Management Committees.

The strategy includes the introduction of biometric attendance systems to track daily teacher attendance and punctuality. Other measures involve strengthening Quality Assurance and Monitoring Teams for unannounced visits, audits of public primary and junior secondary schools, and monthly attendance reports from headteachers to the LG Education Authorities and ASUBEB.

She urged teachers and stakeholders to support the vision of a “New Abia,” where education is not just free and compulsory but also impactful and transformative.

“Let me reiterate — this administration is not just committed to building more classrooms; we are committed to filling them with qualified, present, motivated, and responsible teachers.

“Teachers must reciprocate the goodwill of this government by being physically present, professionally prepared, and morally committed,” she added.

Onuoha also called on parents and the public to support the government’s efforts by reporting complaints, inquiries, or misconduct by schools and teachers through the ASUBEB customer care line: 07076904864.