Benin: Inspector Dakuanté Sambieni dismissed for corruption

Dakuanté Sambieni, Inspector of Primary Education and Head of the Cobly School District (CCS), has been officially dismissed by the Ministry of Nursery and Primary Education. The decision, taken on March 18, 2025, follows the findings of a ministerial investigation which confirmed accusations of illegal collection of fees from teachers.

Investigation confirms accusations

According to the investigation reports, Inspector Dakuanté Sambieni demanded unbudgeted payments from teachers in exchange for the issuance of administrative documents, such as evaluation sheets and individual report cards. In response to numerous complaints, the Ministry launched an investigation which revealed these practices, which were contrary to current regulations.

In response to these irregularities, the Ministry decided to revoke his appointment, thus reiterating the importance of transparency and compliance with administrative standards in the management of the education system.

Appointment of an interim manager

In an official note referenced N°0079/MEMP/DC/SGM/CTJ/CCJ/DPAF/SGRHTE/DADCDS-3/SP, the Minister of Nursery and Primary Education, Salimane Karimou, appointed Bonaventure Djimadja, current CCS of Matéri, to act as interim headmaster at Cobly, pending the appointment of a permanent successor.

This dismissal marks a new stage in the fight against abusive practices within Benin’s school administration, reaffirming the government’s determination to clean up the education sector.