The Edo State Government has taken a decisive step to ensure student safety by announcing an indefinite postponement of school resumption for all public and private institutions within the Edo Central Senatorial District. This move comes as a direct response to recent security challenges that have unsettled the region.
Security Concerns Prompt Precautionary Closure
In an official statement, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, explained the government's position. He stated that the postponement is necessary to allow authorities time to address the "prevailing exigencies" within the district. The primary goal is to safeguard the welfare and security of pupils, students, and staff. Dr. Iyamu assured the public that a new resumption date will be announced in due course and urged parents, guardians, and all education stakeholders to adhere to the directive.
Root of the Crisis: Hijacked Protests and Violence
The decision follows days of heightened tension in Edo Central, which is the home district of Governor Monday Okpebholo. The unrest originated from a peaceful protest in Ekpoma, where residents demonstrated against rampant insecurity and kidnapping incidents. Unfortunately, the protest was hijacked by hoodlums, leading to significant violence.
The attackers blocked a major highway, disrupting commercial activities across the area. The situation escalated further when they stormed a local livestock market, where goats were killed and cows were severely beaten. Disturbing videos of these acts circulated widely on social media platforms.
In a particularly egregious act, the assailants invaded and vandalised the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II. The attack resulted in extensive damage, including the destruction of several vehicles, canopies, chairs, doors, windows, and goods belonging to the monarch's wife.
Government Response and Security Measures
Governor Okpebholo swiftly condemned the violence, labeling the invasion of the traditional ruler's palace as a criminal act. He emphasized that while citizens have the right to protest, it must not serve as a license for lawlessness and destruction.
On Monday, the Governor visited the vandalised palace to assess the damage firsthand. He was accompanied by senior officials, including the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, and leaders from political parties.
The Governor disclosed that the State Security Council had already convened a meeting focused specifically on the security situation in Edo Central, with particular attention on the Ekpoma axis. He revealed that the government has deployed technology-driven security operations to the area to help restore and maintain public order. The indefinite postponement of school resumption is a key part of this broader strategy to stabilize the region before allowing normal academic activities to resume.
