By Editor

To prosecute abusers Edo State Government has suspended the Principal of Edo College, Benin City, Peter Edomwonyi, and House Master of Akenzua Hall, Oamen Stanley, over the viral social media video of abuse by some students, who were taking their National Examinations Council (NECO) final papers.

In a statement issued by Secretary to State government (SSG), Osarodion Ogie, he disclosed that all students involved in the abusive behaviour have been handed over to the Ministry of Justice for investigation and prosecution in accordance with the Child Rights Law.

“The Edo State Government has watched with disdain the disturbing viral social media video of abuse by students of Edo College, Benin City.

“On enquiry, the state Ministry of Education discovered that the incident took place at the college premises and involved Senior Secondary School (SSS) students of Akenzua Hall of residence, who are writing their NECO.”

“The video exposed the incompetence of the management of the school authority and the delinquent behaviour of the students who engaged in the abusive action,” the statement reads.

Ogie further noted that on account of the unfortunate event, the government has instructed Edomwonyi to proceed on suspension immediately.

He is to hand over all property and assets of the school in his possession to the next most senior Vice-Principal and would remain on suspension until the investigation of the incident was concluded and government provided further directives on the matter.

“Also, Oamen Stanley, has been suspended indefinitely with immediate effect. All the students involved in the abusive behaviour have been handed over to the Ministry of Justice for investigation and prosecution in accordance with the Child Rights Law,” he said.

The statement added that the Edo State Ministry of Health has been reaching out to the victims to ascertain their state of health and provide necessary support.

Ogie stated that the state government was committed to maintaining a safe school environment for children and apologised to the victims of the abuse, their parents and members of the public.