The Edo State Government has officially announced a delay in the reopening of schools across the Edo Central Senatorial District. This decision affects all public and private educational institutions and comes amid growing security challenges in the region.
Security Concerns Prompt Postponement
The postponement, announced on 12 January 2026, is until further notice. It is widely believed to be a direct response to the deteriorating security situation in the area, which is the home senatorial district of Governor Monday Okpebholo. The state has witnessed a spike in kidnappings and related violent crimes.
This move follows recent violent protests in Ekpoma, where residents, angered by incessant kidnappings, vandalised the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma and looted several shops. The state government had strongly condemned these actions.
Official Communication and Stakeholder Compliance
In a statement released by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, the government explained the delay was necessary to "address some exigencies and improve the welfare of pupils." He assured the public that a new resumption date would be communicated in due course.
The statement explicitly called for compliance: "Parents, guardians, and all education stakeholders within Edo Central Senatorial District are kindly requested to take note of this development and comply accordingly."
Governor's Parallel Commitment to Ambrose Alli University
Separately, Governor Okpebholo has reaffirmed his administration's focus on educational welfare, specifically addressing long-standing issues at Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma. In late December, during a courtesy visit by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Eunice Eboserehimen Omonzejie, and her management team, the governor pledged to tackle critical inherited challenges.
He described the institution as having been "on life support" but commended the new management's progress. The governor took particular aim at the issue of accumulated unpaid salaries, gratuities, and pensions, describing the situation as unfair and unacceptable.
"It is not right for people to work and not be paid. The issue of unpaid salaries, pensions, and gratuities running into billions of naira is something I will take as a project," Governor Okpebholo stated. He assured the university management of his administration's support to reposition the institution, also acknowledging other concerns like hostel infrastructure and accreditation challenges.
The twin developments highlight the state government's concurrent efforts to ensure physical safety for students and address systemic financial and infrastructural problems within its education sector.
