By John Umeh
The Edo State Government has announced the indefinite postponement of resumption for all public and private schools in the Edo Central Senatorial District due to escalating security challenges.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, said the decision was aimed at giving the government time to address the “prevailing exigencies” in the district and ensure the safety and welfare of students. He added that a new date for resumption would be communicated to the public in due course, urging parents, guardians, and education stakeholders to comply with the directive.
Edo Central, the home district of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has recently experienced heightened tensions following a peaceful protest in Ekpoma over insecurity and kidnappings. The protest reportedly turned violent after it was hijacked by hoodlums, who blocked a major highway, disrupted commercial activities, and attacked a local livestock market, killing goats and beating cows. Graphic footage of the incidents circulated widely on social media.
The attackers also vandalized the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, prompting widespread condemnation. Governor Okpebholo described the acts as criminal, emphasizing that peaceful protests should never be a cover for lawlessness. On Monday, he visited the palace with senior officials, including the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, to assess the extent of the damage. Several vehicles, doors, windows, canopies, chairs, and goods belonging to the monarch’s wife were reported destroyed.
The governor disclosed that the State Security Council had convened earlier to specifically address the situation in Edo Central, especially the Ekpoma area. He noted that technology-driven security measures have been deployed to restore order and prevent further incidents.
Parents and residents have been advised to monitor official announcements for updates on school resumption and to exercise caution while the security situation is being stabilized.
