Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the postponement of resumption for all public and private schools in Edo Central Senatorial District.
The announcement was officially made on Monday, January 12, 2026, by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, during a press briefing in Benin City.
Governor Okpebholo’s decision follows escalating violent unrest that erupted over the weekend in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area.
The unrest began on Saturday when residents gathered to protest against rising insecurity and deteriorating public safety in the region.
According to eyewitnesses, the peaceful protest was soon hijacked by hoodlums, who turned the demonstration into a violent confrontation with security forces.
Police confirmed that one person was shot during the incident, and the matter has been handed over to the military for further investigation.
Authorities emphasized that the safety of students, teachers, and school staff remains the top priority of the government.
Dr. Iyamu urged parents and guardians to comply with the suspension order and ensure that children remain indoors until the situation stabilizes.
The Commissioner added that the Edo State Government is closely monitoring security developments in Ekpoma and other parts of the district.
Governor Okpebholo expressed regret over the disruption but insisted that maintaining peace and protecting lives must take precedence over school schedules.
Security operatives, including the police and military units, have been deployed to Ekpoma to restore law and order and prevent further escalation.
Community leaders in Ekpoma have called for calm and urged youths to refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
The Edo State Government is also engaging traditional rulers and local authorities to mediate between affected communities and security agencies.
Analysts warn that rising insecurity in Edo Central could have long-term consequences for education, commerce, and social cohesion in the region.
Education stakeholders have expressed concern over the repeated disruption of academic calendars due to violence and insecurity.
Governor Okpebholo reassured residents that the government is committed to strengthening security infrastructure, improving intelligence gathering, and preventing similar incidents in the future.
The postponement of schools is expected to remain in effect until further notice, depending on the assessment of security agencies on the ground.
Parents and teachers have been advised to monitor official Edo State Government channels for updates regarding the resumption of academic activities.
The Ekpoma incident has reignited calls for enhanced security measures, community policing, and urgent intervention to safeguard citizens’ lives and property.
The Edo State Government promised that lessons will be drawn from the violence to ensure that such incidents do not recur, particularly in educational environments.