The Education Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has firmly refuted claims circulating in a viral voice note alleging that students in FCT schools are being coerced into adopting a particular religion. The Secretariat described the message, which has been making the rounds in Hausa language via social media platforms, as “false, baseless, and deliberately misleading.”
In an official statement released on Friday, the FCTA clarified that a thorough investigation was promptly conducted following the emergence of the audio message. The findings revealed that the schools and locations cited in the voice note do not exist within the Federal Capital Territory.
Investigations Trace Locations to Nasarawa State
According to the report, the schools mentioned in the recording — including GSS Maraba, GSS Bakin Ado, GJSS Kurunduma, GSS Kurunduma, and Aunty Alice School — are located in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, approximately 20 to 25 kilometers from Abuja city center. None of these institutions fall under the jurisdiction or management of the FCT Administration.
FCT Schools Uphold Secular and Inclusive Values
The Secretariat emphasized that all schools under the FCT Administration are strictly secular, with students of diverse religious backgrounds coexisting peacefully. It reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the constitutional right to freedom of worship and ensuring a learning environment devoid of religious discrimination or coercion.
“Our teachers and school administrators are highly trained professionals who operate within strict professional and ethical guidelines,” the statement read. “They are dedicated to molding disciplined, responsible citizens without bias.”
Ongoing Investments in FCT Education
Under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (CON), the Secretariat highlighted ongoing reforms, including extensive school renovations, infrastructural upgrades, and the provision of ICT facilities across all six area councils, as evidence of the administration’s commitment to educational excellence.
The Education Secretariat, led by Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, has also implemented robust monitoring and feedback systems to maintain high standards of discipline, inclusiveness, and academic performance in FCT schools.
Public Urged to Disregard False Claims
The FCTA condemned the dissemination of what it termed “divisive and harmful narratives aimed at destabilizing the education system and inciting religious tension.” The administration warned that it reserves the right to pursue legal and administrative action against individuals or groups responsible for spreading such misinformation.
Members of the public, media practitioners, and stakeholders have been advised to disregard the viral message in its entirety and rely solely on verified updates from official FCTA communication channels.
Signed:
Kabiru Musa
Head, Information/PR Unit, Education Secretariat
Federal Capital Territory Administration
May 31, 2025
