The Edo State Government has postponed the resumption date for all public and private schools in Edo Central Senatorial District following recent security concerns in the area.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, said the postponement would remain in effect until further notice. He explained that the decision was taken to allow the state government address certain exigencies aimed at improving the welfare and safety of pupils.
“The new date of resumption will be duly communicated to the public in due course,” Iyamu said.
He urged parents, guardians, and other education stakeholders in Edo Central Senatorial District to take note of the development and comply accordingly.
The postponement comes amid rising tension in the zone after a peaceful protest over insecurity turned violent in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, on Saturday.
The protest, which was organised by residents to draw attention to increasing cases of kidnapping and the killing of a youth on Friday night, initially remained peaceful before being hijacked by hoodlums.
The situation escalated when the protesters blocked a major highway. Subsequently, some youths attacked Hausa traders at the livestock market, slaughtered goats, beat cows, and caused widespread panic. Videos of the incident later circulated widely on social media.
During the unrest, hoodlums also attacked and vandalised the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II. The action was strongly condemned by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo.
Reacting to the incident, the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed that one person was shot by a soldier during the crisis. He added that the matter had been referred to the appropriate military authorities for investigation.
Security agencies have since been deployed to restore order, while residents await further directives from the state government, including a new school resumption date.
