Chaos In Ekpoma: Edo Central Schools Shut Down Amid Rising Violence – Okpebholo Acts

The Edo State Government, led by Governor Monday Okpebholo, has indefinitely postponed the resumption of all public and private schools in the Edo Central Senatorial District following a recent outbreak of violence in the area.

The announcement was made on Monday by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, who explained that the decision was aimed at allowing the government to address urgent security concerns and safeguard the welfare of students.

In a statement, Iyamu said, “The postponement will remain in effect until further notice to enable the state to address pressing exigencies and ensure the safety and welfare of pupils. The new resumption date will be communicated to the public in due course.”

He also called on parents, guardians, and education stakeholders in Edo Central to take note of the directive and comply accordingly.

the tension in Edo Central escalated on Saturday when a peaceful protest over insecurity in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, turned violent. Residents had initially demonstrated to raise concerns over rising kidnappings and the killing of a young man on Friday night, blocking a major highway to draw attention to their grievances.

The protest, however, was reportedly hijacked by hoodlums who attacked traders at the local livestock market—slaughtering goats, beating cows, and causing chaos captured in videos that quickly went viral. The attackers also vandalized the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, prompting condemnation from Governor Okpebholo.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed that one person was shot by a soldier during the unrest and noted that the matter has been referred to military authorities for further investigation.

The violence caused panic in the community, forcing residents and traders to flee. Security agencies were subsequently deployed to restore order. The government emphasized that the school resumption suspension is a precautionary measure to protect students, teachers, and school administrators until the situation stabilizes.