Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Tuesday declared a state of emergency in public schools across the state, citing their deplorable conditions.
The governor, accompanied by government officials, toured schools in Ikpoba-Okha and Egor local government areas, expressing deep concern over the deteriorating state of urban schools.
Okpebholo lamented the poor learning environment and emphasised that Edo children deserved better facilities to enable them to reach their full potential. He recalled his campaign promise to declare a state of emergency in schools lacking modern facilities and a conducive learning environment across the state.
During his visit to Army Day Secondary School in Ikpoba-Okha and Evbareke Secondary School in Egor, the governor was visibly displeased with the conditions under which students were learning.
“I feel bad about the state of the schools I inspected today. The conditions are unacceptable for our children.
“When campaigning, I promised to declare a state of emergency in Edo schools. I will start from Evbareke Secondary School and Army Day Secondary School.
“From tomorrow, work will begin at these schools. These schools have no fence, and erosion has washed away the road leading to Army Day Secondary School.
“The road to Army Day Secondary School, Boundary Road, leads to Temboga. It’s in a very poor state, affecting our children’s access to education,” he added.
Edo Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, who accompanied the governor on the inspection, said the visit was aimed at assessing the challenges faced by students firsthand.
“The governor is here to understand the difficulties of the students and help find solutions. He’s committed to practical governance to show Edo people that they deserve better,” he said.
“The governor has ordered us to ensure that all Edo children, including those physically challenged, have access to quality education. With the governor’s leadership, change will come,” Iyamu said.
Earlier, the Vice Principal of Students’ Affairs at Evbareke Secondary School, Mrs Mary Izewingie, briefed the governor on the school’s prolonged infrastructural challenges.
“According to her, we cried out for help, but nobody listened. Learning has been difficult for our students. We even tried to make repairs, but the rains ruined our efforts.”
She stated that the situation had remained unchanged since 2022 despite repeated complaints.
With the governor’s directive for immediate intervention, the affected schools are expected to receive urgent attention as part of his administration’s commitment to improving education in the state.
