Benin City, Nigeria – Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has officially declared a state of emergency on public schools across the state, citing their dilapidated condition and lack of basic infrastructure.
During an inspection tour of Evbareke Secondary School in Egor and Army Day Secondary School in Ikpoba-Okha, the governor expressed deep concern over the poor learning conditions of students, describing the situation as unacceptable.
“I feel very bad about the state of our public schools. It is heartbreaking to see children learning under such terrible conditions. This is not the kind of environment that encourages success,” Okpebholo stated.
The governor assured that renovation work would begin immediately, starting with Evbareke and Army Day Secondary Schools. He noted that both schools lack perimeter fencing, making them vulnerable to vandalism and security threats. Additionally, he pointed out the erosion-damaged roads leading to Army Day Secondary School, which he promised to fix.
“From tomorrow, work will commence in these schools. We cannot allow this situation to continue,” he affirmed.
Students and teachers at the affected schools voiced their frustrations, stating that their complaints had gone unheard for years. They highlighted issues such as: Leaking roofs, (making learning impossible during rainfall), Poor sanitation (with excreta sometimes found in classrooms), Lack of basic infrastructure (including proper furniture and teaching materials)
A teacher at Evbareke Secondary School, Mrs. Mary Izewingie, revealed that the situation had been the same since 2022, despite multiple pleas for intervention.
“We have been crying for help, but no one listened. We even tried to make small repairs ourselves, but the rains kept undoing our efforts,” she lamented.
The Edo State Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming public education.
“The governor is determined to provide quality education for all Edo children, including those with physical disabilities. His leadership will bring the change we need,” Iyamu assured.
