RismadarVoice Reporters
October 25, 2026
The traditional ruler of Taabaa community in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Mene Nule, has denied allegations that he subjected female students of Government Comprehensive High School, Taabaa, to forced virginity tests.
The monarch, however, acknowledged conducting what he described as a “virginity roll call,” during which female students were asked to publicly identify themselves as virgins.
The controversy followed a petition submitted to the Rivers State Ministry of Education by the school’s management, alleging that the traditional ruler and members of his council had repeatedly visited the institution to identify female students for purported virginity testing.
The petition, dated October 12, 2026, was signed by the school’s Vice-Principal, Bieh Gloria.
According to the school authorities, the alleged activities involved promises of scholarships and exercise books to selected students.
In response, the Rivers State Ministry of Education announced an investigation into reports that 16 female students were selected for alleged forced virginity testing on September 17, 2026.
The ministry said the reported selection prompted objections and a peaceful protest by students.
In a statement dated October 22, Permanent Secretary Dr Mina Tele Ikuru, acting on behalf of the Commissioner for Education, condemned the alleged activities and emphasised the need to protect students’ dignity, privacy and fundamental rights.
Responding to the allegations, Nule maintained that his visits were intended to encourage academic discipline and discourage early sexual activity among students.
He explained that he introduced the roll-call initiative in 2020 after receiving reports of alleged sexual misconduct involving some teachers and female students.
According to the monarch, the exercise involved asking girls who considered themselves virgins to stand during classroom visits.
He also disclosed that four students who identified themselves as virgins in 2025 received ₦20,000 each.
Nule insisted that he had never taken any student to a hospital or medical practitioner for virginity testing.
He further explained that he had supported the school since 2004 through donations of educational materials, including chalk, books and school bags.
Describing the allegations as an attempt to damage his reputation, the monarch challenged anyone possessing evidence of forced medical examinations to present it.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education warned that scholarships and educational assistance must not be tied to practices that compromise students’ safety or rights.
The ministry also directed schools to protect children against coercive, degrading or invasive activities.
Although Nule has admitted to conducting public roll calls, the allegations of forced physical examinations remain unproven.
The government’s investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported activities and determine whether further action is necessary.
