Edo State government, yesterday, gave reasons why it decided to extend the resumption of school in the state.
Pupils and students in public and private schools in the state were supposed to resume on Monday, September 9, only to be extended by the state governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki.
The extension drew flak from the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), who condemned the extension, arguing that the latest plan by Governor Obaseki to shut down Edo State starting from 15th September was to organise mass protest where other PDP-controlled states would join the protest, to invite the military to take over the reins of power at the federal level.
According to the APC media campaign director, Prince Kassim Afegbua, in a statement in Benin City, “Obaseki informed a meeting at the Government House that other PDP-controlled states would postpone the resumption dates of schools to orchestrate a nationwide protest that would lead to military take-over.
“He (Obaseki) reportedly told them that he would rather disrupt the country for a change of government than lose Edo state to the opposition APC. He said that was why he postponed the school resumption date and that other PDP-controlled states would follow suit starting this week.”
Addressing a press briefing, however, Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Mr. Chris Nehikhare, said, “government decided to extend the school resumption date to ensure the safety and well-being of our children.”
He said, “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 fuel price as well as the concomitant increase in the cost of living.”
Besides, Nehikhare said an intelligence report available to the government alleged that APC has imported armed thugs intending to cause mayhem in the state.
“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 safe in their homes until we diffuse the situation softly.
“The APC’s actions, including their reckless behaviour that has resulted in the shooting of innocent individuals, raise serious alarms. We believe 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.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and to work together to maintain peace and stability in Edo State”, Nehikhare declared.
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