Edo State Postpones School Resumption In Edo Central After Violent Protest Over Insecurity
The Edo State Government has postponed the resumption of all public and private schools in Edo Central Senatorial District indefinitely.
In a statement on Monday, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, explained that the delay is to allow the state to address pressing issues and enhance the welfare of students. He said, “The new date of resumption will be duly communicated to the public in due course. Parents, guardians, and all education stakeholders within Edo Central Senatorial District are kindly requested to take note of this development and comply accordingly.”
The announcement follows a violent turn during a peaceful protest over insecurity on Saturday in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area. Residents initially demonstrated against rising crime, including kidnappings and the killing of a youth on Friday night, blocking a major highway to voice their concerns.
The protest was later hijacked by hoodlums, who attacked traders at the livestock market, slaughtered goats, beat cows, and caused panic, scenes widely circulated in viral videos. The rioters also vandalised the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, drawing condemnation from Governor Okpebholo.
The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed that one person was shot by a soldier during the unrest and that the matter has been referred to military authorities.
The crisis has heightened concerns over security in the region, prompting the government to delay school activities until stability is restored.
