The Edo State Government has said that it postponed the resumption date for the 2024/2025 academic session in primary and post-primary schools for the safety and well-being of children.
DAILY POST reports that the State Government had in a circular dated September 6, 2024, said the resumption of the academic session earlier slated for September 9, 2024 was postponed until further notice due to tension arising from the recent increase in fuel prices by the Federal Government.
The circular signed by Ojo Akin-Lounge, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education on behalf of the Commissioner for Education , Dr Joan Oviawe also attributed the postponement to challenges faced by parents and guardians occasioned by the fuel price increment.
However, at a press conference in Benin on Tuesday, the State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare said the postponement was to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
“This decision is rooted in our deep commitment to protecting our children from all forms of danger including the possible consequences of the astronomical increase in the price of fuel as well as the concomitant increase in cost of living.
“We are also mindful of the intelligence report we received about the threats posed by the APC, who have reportedly imported and armed thugs that are causing mayhem across the state.
“Because the safety of our children is paramount we do not want to take any chances hence we are keeping our children in the safety of their homes until we difuse the situation sortly.
“The APC’s actions, including their reckless behaviour that has resulted in the shooting of innocent individuals, raise serious alarms. We believe that these actions are part of a desperate strategy to instigate a state of emergency and shift the blame onto the PDP.
“We also want to clarify that apart from the public holidays on Monday and Friday, we have implemented mechanisms to ensure that any learning loss during this extended period will be effectively addressed.
“Our commitment to our children’s education remains unwavering, and we will work diligently to regain any lost instructional time.
“Our priority is the safety and education of our children. We will continue to take necessary measures to protect our communities and ensure that our schools are safe environments for learning,” he said
He, however, urged the public to remain vigilant and to work together to maintain peace and stability in the state.
We postponed resumption of schools for safety, well-being of children – Edo Govt