The Edo State Government has announced a temporary delay in the resumption of academic activities for all public and private schools across the Edo Central Senatorial District, citing security concerns following recent violent incidents in the area.
The decision was made public on Monday by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, who explained that the move is a precautionary step aimed at safeguarding students, teachers, and school administrators while the government addresses emerging security challenges.
According to Iyamu, the suspension of school resumption will remain in effect until further notice. He noted that the government requires time to respond to urgent issues and put measures in place to enhance the safety and welfare of pupils within the affected district.
“The postponement is to allow the state government address certain exigencies necessary to improve the welfare and safety of our pupils. A new resumption date will be communicated in due course,” the commissioner stated.
He also called on parents, guardians, and other stakeholders in the education sector to take note of the directive and cooperate fully with the authorities.
The development comes amid heightened tension in Edo Central following a violent episode in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area. The unrest reportedly began on Saturday after residents staged a peaceful protest to draw attention to increasing cases of kidnapping and the killing of a young man the previous night.
What started as a calm demonstration later degenerated when miscreants allegedly infiltrated the protest. The situation escalated as a major highway was blocked and traders at a livestock market were attacked. Eyewitnesses reported that animals were injured and killed during the chaos, with disturbing scenes later circulating widely on social media.
The crisis further intensified with the reported vandalisation of the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, an incident that drew strong condemnation from Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Confirming the unrest, the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, disclosed that one individual was shot by a soldier during the disturbance. He added that the matter has been referred to military authorities for a thorough investigation.
The violence triggered widespread fear, forcing residents and traders to flee the area before security agencies were deployed to restore order.
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With tension still simmering in parts of the district, the state government emphasized that the suspension of school resumption is strictly a safety measure, stressing its commitment to protecting lives while efforts continue to stabilize the affected communities.
