According to eyewitnesses and local sources, the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, June 28, when students, angered by the betrayal, *stormed the principal’s home located within the school premises*, setting it ablaze in what many described as a violent act of retaliation.
The affected students were preparing to sit for the *National Examinations Council (NECO)* senior secondary certificate exams — a critical test for tertiary admission in Nigeria. However, they reportedly found out last minute that their names were *not on the official NECO registration list*, despite the school collecting fees well above the standard NECO registration cost.
Community members in the *Kwande Local Government Area*, where the school is located, confirmed the fire destroyed property worth millions of naira. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, although the principal and his family were forced to flee for safety.
Authorities from the *Benue State Ministry of Education* have visited the scene and condemned the violence but also promised a *full investigation* into the allegations of *fraudulent fee collection*. The *Benue State Police Command* confirmed that an inquiry has been launched and some students may face charges related to arson and destruction of property.
Parents have expressed outrage over both the financial loss and the academic setback. Civil society organizations are also calling for *greater oversight of private secondary schools*, especially regarding exam registration processes and financial transparency.
This incident raises urgent questions about *educational malpractice, administrative corruption, and student accountability*. Education advocates warn that such a breakdown in trust between school authorities and students undermines the credibility of Nigeria’s already struggling education system.
This report is based on confirmed eyewitness accounts, local media coverage, and statements from Benue State education and law enforcement authorities as of June 28, 2025.
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