…Insecurity has heightened tension in the area following violent incidents that erupted after a protest turned chaotic on Saturday.
EDO, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Insecurity has caused the Edo State Government to announce the postponement of the resumption date for all public and private schools in the Edo Central Senatorial District.
In a statement issued yesterday, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, said the decision was taken to allow the state address pressing issues aimed at improving the safety and welfare of pupils and students in the zone. He noted that the postponement would remain in effect until further notice.
“A new resumption date will be communicated in due course. Parents, guardians and other education stakeholders in Edo Central Senatorial District are advised to take note of this development and comply accordingly,” Iyamu stated.
Insecurity has heightened tension in the area following violent incidents that erupted after a protest turned chaotic on Saturday.
The protest, which was initially peaceful, was reportedly hijacked by hoodlums who attacked traders at the livestock market, killing goats and injuring cattle, scenes that were widely circulated in a viral video.
The assailants also vandalised the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, Zaiki Anthony Abumere II, an action strongly condemned by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Confirming developments, the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed that one person was shot by a soldier during the unrest, adding that the incident had been referred to military authorities for investigation.
The crisis began in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, when residents staged a protest over worsening insecurity, including cases of kidnapping and the killing of a youth on Friday night.
During the protest, demonstrators blocked a major highway to draw attention to their grievances before the situation degenerated, with some youths attacking Hausa traders at the livestock market, slaughtering animals and causing widespread panic.
