The Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, on December 3, 2025, held a crucial meeting with the management team, including the Principal and Parent Teachers Association (PTA) leadership of the UBEC Vocational Secondary School Akpabuyo.
The meeting, which took place at the Ministry’s headquarters of the Cross River State Ministry of Education, was convened to address and resolve internal administrative issues affecting the institution.

During the session, Senator Odey expressed concern over emerging local policies within the school’s management, which he warned were capable of causing division and disrupting academic stability. He emphasized that the school was established to provide quality basic and technical education, not to advance narrow interests.

The Commissioner cautioned against factionalism among staff and management, underscoring the need for unity, professionalism, and a peaceful working environment. He made it clear that any action capable of undermining the institution’s operations would not be tolerated.

As part of corrective measures, Senator Odey ordered the immediate transfer of key management staff, including:
• Mr. Okon Clement Xavier (Principal, UBEC Vocational Secondary School Akpabuyo LGA)
• Mrs. Njong Esther Nkure (Vice Principal, UBEC Vocational Secondary School Akpabuyo LGA)
• Mr. Bassey Bassey
• Mr. Edet Okon

He noted that the transfers were necessary to restructure the school’s leadership and restore order. The Commissioner further warned that all public school administrators and teachers in the state must take their responsibilities seriously, stressing that there would be zero tolerance for negligence or indiscipline.

Addressing issues of community interference, Senator Odey reiterated that no individual or group has the right to claim ownership of a government school or disrupt its operations. He urged community members to desist from actions that hinder teaching and learning, emphasizing that school management must be allowed to perform their duties without undue pressure.

The Commissioner also expressed appreciation to Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, for drawing his attention to the challenges faced by the school. He noted that the Governor’s interest reflects a strong commitment to strengthening the state’s education sector.

Stakeholders present at the meeting included:
• Mrs. Offiong Ani Offiong (Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education)
• Dr. Emmanuel Achibong (Executive Secretary Technical Board)
• Mr. Itam Cyril (Director Special Duties Ministry of Education)
• Dr. Teresa Essien (Board Member 11 SUBEB)
• Mr. Etim Paul Edem (Executive Secretary Akpabuyo LGA)