The Edo State Government has postponed the resumption of all public and private schools in Edo Central Senatorial District following a violent security breach that rocked the area.

In a statement released on Monday, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, announced that the suspension of school activities would remain until further notice, as the state moves to address the prevailing security challenges and safeguard the welfare of students and staff.
“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 the district to take note of the development and comply accordingly.

The decision follows a violent attack on a traditional palace, during which several vehicles, canopies, chairs, doors, and windows were vandalised. Goods belonging to the monarch’s wife were also destroyed, heightening tension across the district.

Reacting to the incident, Governor Monday Okpebholo condemned the invasion, describing it as criminal and unacceptable. He warned that protests must never be used as a cover for looting and violence.
“I want to thank Your Highness for the love you have shown to me and our people over the years,” the governor said.
“Kidnapping is a serious problem across Nigeria, which is why the President has taken bold steps, including withdrawing police from VIP duties, to strengthen the fight against insecurity.”

Okpebholo disclosed that a high-level security meeting had earlier been held with a strong focus on Edo Central, particularly the Ekpoma axis, adding that strategic, technology-driven security operations have now been deployed.
“We have carried out operations in Edo North and Edo South, and now we are in Edo Central. We will leave no stone unturned,” he said.
“The first operation was very successful, as nine kidnapped persons in Etsako West were rescued unhurt and the kidnappers were arrested.”
Issuing a stern warning to those who hijacked the protest, the governor said, “They came under the guise of protest and sentiments, then resorted to looting and violence.”

As security operations intensify, residents and school communities across Edo Central await further updates on when normal academic activities will resume.