The Edo State Government has announced the indefinite postponement of the resumption of both public and private schools in the Edo Central Senatorial District for the second term, following recent security concerns in the area.
The decision comes in the aftermath of a violent protest that erupted last week in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, over the growing cases of kidnappings in the community. The protest, which turned violent, left several persons injured and led to widespread destruction of property.
During the unrest, the palace of the traditional ruler was vandalised, commercial activities were disrupted, and some shops were reportedly looted, heightening fears over the safety of residents, including students and school staff.
Announcing the development in a statement, the Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, said the postponement would remain in force “till further notice.”
According to Iyamu, the measure is aimed at giving the government and relevant security agencies time to address urgent concerns affecting the safety and welfare of students across the affected senatorial district.
“The new date of resumption will be duly communicated to the public in due course,” the commissioner said. “Parents, guardians, and all education stakeholders within Edo Central Senatorial District are kindly requested to take note of this development and comply accordingly.”
The government did not indicate when schools in the district might reopen but assured residents that steps are being taken to restore calm and improve security before academic activities resume.
