The Niger State Chapter of the Parent-Teacher Association (NIPTA) has opposed a recent directive from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education ordering the dissolution of all public schools’ PTA executive committees.

In a statement signed by Chairman Adamu Yunusa, NIPTA described the circular as “unconstitutional”, arguing that it undermines the rights of parents and teachers in school governance.

“PTA executives are elected by parents and teachers in each school and operate as independent bodies. The Ministry does not have the authority to remove elected officials without valid reasons or due process,” Yunusa said.

He also questioned why the Ministry sought input from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on PTA matters, noting that PTAs are neither labour unions nor employer organizations.

According to Yunusa, PTAs exist primarily to support students’ welfare, educational development, and cooperation between parents and schools, not to handle labor-related issues.

The NIPTA state chapter called on principals and headteachers to ignore the directive and maintain the current PTA leadership. The association also urged parents, teachers, and other stakeholders to continue supporting PTAs in strengthening education in the state.