By Ghazali Ibrahim 
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has declared a state of emergency on public schools in the state, citing their deplorable conditions. The governor made the declaration during an inspection tour of schools in Ikpoba-Okha and Egor local government areas.
Accompanied by the Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, Governor Okpebholo visited Army Day Secondary School in Ikpoba-Okha and Evbareke Secondary School in Egor. He expressed disappointment over the poor state of urban schools, emphasizing that Edo children deserve better learning environments to reach their full potential.
“I feel very bad about the situation of the schools that I inspected today. Look at the type of schools our children are attending. It is not acceptable at all,” Governor Okpebholo lamented. He noted that the schools lacked proper fencing, which compromised the safety and security of students. Erosion had also damaged roads leading to schools, making it difficult for students to access education. Many schools had dilapidated buildings, creating an unconducive learning environment.
The governor noted that the declaration of a state of emergency on public schools was a fulfillment of his campaign promise to prioritize education and address the challenges facing public schools in Edo State. “While campaigning for the votes of the electorate in Edo State, I promised to declare a state of emergency on public schools across Edo State that lack modern facilities and conducive environment for learning,” he explained.
To address the challenges, the governor has directed the Ministry of Education to prioritize the improvement of school infrastructure and teaching conditions. He assured that work will commence immediately to provide quality education to Edo children.
“We must give Edo children quality education to set them for the future. From tomorrow, work will begin here, as the school visited has no fence, and the road leading to Army Day Secondary School has been washed off by erosion,” Governor Okpebholo stated.
Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, explained that the governor’s visit was aimed at assessing the challenges firsthand and ensuring that every child in Edo has access to quality education. “Information got to the ministry on the harsh condition facing students of the school. The governor was visiting schools to see things for himself, because he wanted to feel the plight of the students,” Iyamu said.
The declaration of a state of emergency on public schools is expected to bring about significant improvements in the education sector in Edo State.
