Abuja, June 12, 2026 — The House of Representatives has passed a landmark constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish state police across Nigeria, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to address worsening insecurity and decentralize law enforcement.

The bill, which received overwhelming support during plenary presided over by Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, proposes a major alteration to the 1999 Constitution to allow each of Nigeria’s 36 states to establish and operate its own police force alongside the existing Nigeria Police Force.

The constitutional amendment is widely regarded as one of the most consequential security reforms since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999. Supporters argue that the current centralized policing structure has struggled to cope with the diverse security challenges facing different regions of the country, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry and kidnappings in the North-West, separatist violence in the South-East, communal conflicts, and oil-related crimes in the Niger Delta.

Presenting the report of the Constitution Review Committee, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu urged lawmakers to support the proposal, describing it as a necessary response to the nation’s evolving security challenges. The House subsequently adopted the report and approved multiple constitutional amendment clauses relating to the creation of state police.

According to details of the bill, Section 214 of the Constitution would be amended to formally recognize both Federal Police and State Police formations. The National Assembly would retain authority to establish minimum operational standards, organizational structures, and regulatory frameworks governing state police services throughout the federation.

One of the key safeguards contained in the proposal limits federal intervention in state policing matters. Under the framework, the Federal Police may intervene only in situations involving a complete breakdown of law and order, upon the request of a state governor, or when a state police service becomes unable to function effectively due to financial, administrative, or operational difficulties.

Advocates of the reform maintain that governors, who are constitutionally designated as chief security officers of their states, have long complained about lacking direct operational control over police personnel deployed within their jurisdictions. They argue that state police would improve intelligence gathering, enhance response times to emergencies, and provide law enforcement officers with better knowledge of local communities and terrain.

The push for state police has gained momentum amid growing concerns over insecurity across the country. Recent incidents of mass abductions, attacks by armed groups, and persistent criminal activities have intensified calls for a more localized security architecture. President Bola Tinubu has expressed support for the reform, while consultations involving the Presidency, the National Assembly, security agencies, and state governments have accelerated efforts to amend the Constitution.

Despite widespread support, the proposal has also attracted criticism. Opponents warn that state governors could potentially misuse state-controlled police forces against political opponents or minority groups. Concerns have also been raised about funding, training standards, coordination between federal and state forces, and the capacity of economically weaker states to sustain effective police institutions.

For the amendment to become law, it must still secure approval by at least two-thirds of the Senate and be ratified by no fewer than 24 of the 36 State Houses of Assembly before it can be transmitted to President Tinubu for assent.

If ultimately enacted, the legislation will fundamentally reshape Nigeria’s security architecture and represent the most significant decentralization of policing powers since independence, potentially altering the relationship between federal and state authorities in the maintenance of law and order.

Davidson Ogbebor

The Managing Director of the Edo State Waste Management Board, Ambassador Dr. Lucky Enehita-Inegbenehi, has personally supervised the ongoing maintenance and pushing of waste at the state’s dumpsite as part of efforts to enhance waste disposal operations and promote a cleaner environment across Edo State.

Speaking during an inspection of the exercise, Dr. Enehita-Inegbenehi stated that routine maintenance of the dumpsite is critical to ensuring operational efficiency, creating additional capacity for incoming waste, and preventing potential environmental hazards.

He emphasized that effective management of waste disposal facilities remains a key component of the state’s drive towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for residents.

According to the Managing Director, the ongoing maintenance exercise aligns with the government’s commitment to improving sanitation standards and strengthening environmental sustainability initiatives throughout the state.

Dr. Enehita-Inegbenehi also commended the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his unwavering support for environmental protection and improved waste management practices.

He noted that the governor’s commitment has continued to provide the necessary backing for initiatives aimed at keeping Edo State clean, safe, and healthy for all.

He reassured residents of the Board’s dedication to maintaining high standards of waste management and urged members of the public to support government efforts by adopting proper waste disposal practices and contributing to environmental cleanliness.

Paul Okojie

Today, as Nigeria marks another June 12, political leaders will once again deliver litanies of speeches celebrating democracy. There will be official ceremonies, public holidays, and lofty declarations about democratic governance. Yet beneath the fanfare lies an uncomfortable truth: June 12 is not merely a celebration of democracy. It is, first and foremost, a memorial to a man whose life was consumed by the struggle to ensure that the will of the Nigerian people prevailed over military dictatorship which had span for almost 34years after independence.

That man was Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola.

For this reason, June 12 should not simply be celebrated as Democracy Day. It should be formally observed as MKO Abiola Memorial Day, ensuring that future generations understand the enormous sacrifice upon which Nigeria’s democratic journey was built.

History records that on June 12, 1993, Nigerians participated in what remains widely acknowledged as the freest and fairest election in the country’s history. In a nation often divided by ethnicity, religion, and regional loyalties, Nigerians rose above their differences and voted overwhelmingly for MKO Abiola. The election demonstrated the possibility of a united Nigeria and reflected the genuine aspirations of the people.

But the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida abruptly annulled the election, plunging the nation into political uncertainty and outrage. The annulment was more than a political decision; it was an assault on the sovereignty of the Nigerian people. It sent a dangerous message that votes did not matter and that the military could overturn the people’s mandate at will.

Many politicians would have retreated in the face of such overwhelming state power. Abiola chose a different path.

Refusing to abandon the mandate freely given to him by Nigerians, he became the symbol of a nationwide struggle against military dictatorship. While others compromised, negotiated, or fled into exile, Abiola stood firm. He insisted that the June 12 mandate belonged not to him alone but to millions of Nigerians whose voices had been silenced.

His resistance came at a tremendous personal cost.

Following General Sani Abacha’s seizure of power in November 1993, Nigeria descended into one of trying time in its post-independence history. Political opponents were hunted down, journalists were imprisoned, newspapers were shut down, and civil liberties were routinely violated. Yet Abiola remained steadfast.

On June 11, 1994, nearly one year after the election, he publicly declared himself the rightful president of Nigeria at Epetedo in Lagos. It was a courageous act that challenged the authority of a military government feared throughout the country.
The response was swift.

He was arrested and charged with treason.

For approximately four years, Abiola remained in detention, much of it under harsh conditions. He was separated from his family, denied his freedom, and subjected to immense psychological pressure. Throughout his incarceration, he was repeatedly urged to renounce his claim to the presidency. He refused.

The struggle became even more tragic with the assassination of his wife, Kudirat Abiola, in 1996. She had become one of the most visible voices demanding her husband’s release and the restoration of the June 12 mandate. Her murder shocked the nation and underscored the brutality of the military era.

Yet even in the face of personal loss, Abiola did not surrender.

Then came the events of 1998. General Abacha died suddenly on June 8, raising hopes that Abiola would soon regain his freedom. Those hopes were shattered barely a month later when Abiola himself died in detention on July 7, 1998, before he could enjoy the liberty for which he had sacrificed so much.

His death transformed him from a political leader into a national martyr.

The irony remains profound. MKO Abiola won Nigeria’s most credible election, yet he never occupied the office to which he was elected. He never took the oath of office. He never governed the nation. He never exercised presidential powers. Instead, he paid with his freedom, his family, and ultimately his life.

It is therefore misleading to speak of June 12 solely as Democracy Day. Nigeria Democracy Day should be May 29 when Nigerians celebrated to handover of power back to Civilian rule.

Democracy did not sit in prison for four years. MKO Abiola did.

Democracy did not lose a wife to political violence. MKO Abiola did.

Democracy did not die in detention. MKO Abiola did.

The freedoms Nigerians enjoy today were purchased with sacrifices made by Abiola and countless other pro-democracy activists who challenged military dictatorship. To celebrate democracy while gradually forgetting the sacrifices that secured it would be a grave disservice to history.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari took an important step in 2018 by recognising June 12 as Democracy Day and posthumously honouring Abiola with Nigeria’s highest national award. Yet more remains to be done.

Nigeria needs a day of national remembrance dedicated specifically to MKO Abiola and all those who suffered and died defending democratic principles. Such a day would not diminish democracy; rather, it would deepen the nation’s appreciation of it. It would remind every generation that democracy is sustained not by speeches and ceremonies but by courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to justice.

As the nation reflects on June 12, it must remember that behind the date stands a man whose name has become inseparable from Nigeria’s democratic struggle. The day is significant because of what happened after the election as much as because of the election itself.

The most fitting tribute Nigeria can pay is to ensure that June 12 is remembered not merely as Democracy Day but as MKO Abiola Memorial Day, a solemn reminder that freedom has a price and that some patriots paid it in full.

That is the true meaning of June 12.

Benin City — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on Nigerians to remain vigilant, united, and committed to strengthening democratic institutions as the nation continues to confront insecurity, economic challenges, and threats to public trust.

In his Democracy Day message, Governor Okpebholo said June 12 should serve not only as a remembrance of the sacrifices made by Nigeria’s democratic heroes but also as a call to action for citizens and leaders to safeguard the country’s democratic gains.

Reflecting on the significance of the June 12, 1993 presidential election and the struggle led by the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other pro-democracy activists, the governor noted that the lessons of that era remain relevant as Nigeria navigates contemporary challenges.

“June 12 reminds us that democracy is not a destination but a continuous journey. The sacrifices of our democratic heroes secured our freedom to choose our leaders, but the responsibility of protecting and strengthening our institutions rests on all of us,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo identified insecurity as one of the greatest threats to national development, citing kidnapping, cult-related violence, armed robbery, and other criminal activities that have disrupted lives and livelihoods across parts of the country.

According to him, no democracy can thrive where citizens live in fear, stressing that security remains the foundation upon which economic growth, social stability, and national progress are built.

“Democracy means little to a family that cannot sleep peacefully at night or to a community living under the threat of criminal elements. Security, justice, and the protection of lives and property are essential dividends of democracy,” he stated.

The governor said his administration has intensified efforts to combat insecurity in Edo State through enhanced collaboration with security agencies, community-based intelligence gathering, strategic deployment of security resources, and sustained action against kidnapping and cultism.

He highlighted ongoing initiatives under the SHINE Agenda, including improvements in healthcare delivery through the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme (EdoHIS), rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, investments in education, youth empowerment programmes, and economic development projects aimed at improving residents’ quality of life.

Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s resilience, Governor Okpebholo said the nation possesses the strength and determination to overcome its current security and economic challenges.

“Nigeria has overcome difficult periods before, and we will overcome these challenges again. With strong institutions, responsible leadership, active citizen participation, and unwavering faith in our nation, we can build a safer, more prosperous, and more united country,” he said.

The governor also urged political leaders, public office holders, and citizens to uphold the principles of accountability, transparency, and respect for the rule of law. He warned against divisive politics, misinformation, and actions capable of undermining democratic institutions.

As the nation prepares for future electoral contests, he called on Nigerians to embrace peaceful political engagement and issue-based campaigns, emphasizing that democracy flourishes when citizens participate responsibly and leaders remain accountable to the people.

“Democracy survives through participation, integrity, and respect for institutions. Let us remain committed to building a Nigeria where justice prevails, opportunities abound, and every citizen can live in peace, dignity, and hope,” the governor added.

Governor Okpebholo congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering good governance, enhanced security, and sustainable development across Edo State.

Signed:

Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State

The Edo Government has condemned the use of substandard materials in the construction of a two-storey building that collapsed while under construction at Gospel Avenue, off Adesuwa Road, in Oredo Local Government Area of the state.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr Vincent Uwadiae, ordered the sealing of the building and warned developers against the use of inferior materials and the erection of structures without the necessary approvals.

Speaking at the site of the incident, Uwadiae expressed gratitude that no lives were lost in the collapse.

“Let me first thank God that no worker was on site when the building collapsed. Had it occurred while workers were on site, the casualties could have been enormous.

“This building was not approved, there is no application before the ministry. How can someone erect a two-storey building without obtaining the required approval?

“We have continued to educate members of the public on the need to secure building approval so that the ministry can monitor developments.

“Although we cannot be everywhere, residents in the area should have drawn our attention to the project so that appropriate action could have been taken.

“The building will remain sealed for now. The owner is nowhere to be found, and no workers are on site. The law will take its course, and necessary action will be taken once the actual owner of the property is identified,” he said.

The commissioner noted that the reinforcement rods used in the construction were of poor quality and incapable of supporting even a one-storey building, let alone a two-storey structure.

He added that if the owner failed to present himself for investigation within the stipulated period, the government would take over the property in accordance with relevant laws.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of the Edo State Development and Building Control Agency (ESDBCA), Mr Darlington Igabali described the incident as a preventable disaster.

“The administration of Gov. Monday Okpebholo has zero tolerance for irresponsible and substandard developments in the state.

“Preliminary findings indicated that the collapse resulted from the use of inferior materials. In addition, there was no approval for the building,” he said.

A resident, Mr Jonathan Bitrus, said the building collapsed at about 2:00 a.m. or 2:15 a.m., noting that the foundation of the structure was not strong enough to support a two-storey building.

By Dr Patrick Akhere Ebojele

The decision by Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to approve the promotion of medical doctors in the state’s public service after more than eight years of stagnation is being widely commended as a major boost for the healthcare sector and the welfare of health professionals. It gives necessary vent to the healthcare aspect of his SHINE Agenda.

And, of a truth, for hundreds of Edo doctors who have remained on the same grade levels despite years of service, professional development, and increasing responsibilities, the approval represents not just the end of a prolonged period of uncertainty and frustration; it also signals a renewed commitment by the Edo State Government to strengthen healthcare delivery by investing in the people at the heart of the system.

The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, who disclosed that Governor Okpebholo approved the long-overdue promotions under the healthcare pillar of the administration’s SHINE Agenda. The move has been welcomed by medical professionals and stakeholders who see it as a recognition of the sacrifices made by doctors who continued to serve despite limited opportunities for career progression.

As it were, for close to a decade, many doctors in Edo State remained professionally stagnant while their counterparts in other states advanced through the ranks. Despite fulfilling promotion requirements and contributing significantly to patient care, they found themselves trapped in an administrative backlog that affected morale and financial growth.

The Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Edo State chapter, Dr. Eustace Oseghale, described the development as a moment of relief and celebration for doctors across the state. According to him, the approval acknowledges the dedication, resilience, and commitment of healthcare professionals who kept the state’s health system functioning despite the challenges they faced.

The impact of the eight-year delay extended far beyond the workplace. Promotion in the public service affects not only a worker’s status but also income, pension benefits, career opportunities, and overall quality of life. For many doctors, the prolonged freeze meant delayed financial progress, reduced earning capacity, and limited opportunities to improve their living conditions.

Many affected professionals struggled with the reality of carrying increasing responsibilities without corresponding advancement. Some postponed personal projects, housing plans, investments, and educational opportunities for their children because expected salary improvements never materialized.

The psychological effect was equally significant. In a profession that demands long hours, constant training, and immense responsibility, career progression serves as a form of recognition and motivation. When advancement is repeatedly delayed, it can create feelings of frustration and discourage professionals from remaining in public service.

Governor Okpebholo’s intervention is therefore seen as more than a routine administrative decision. It is viewed as a policy action aimed at restoring confidence in the state’s healthcare workforce and demonstrating that excellence and dedication will be rewarded.

According to Dr. Oshiomhole, the approval reflects the governor’s understanding of the critical role healthcare professionals play in the development of Edo State.

Healthcare workers remain one of the most important pillars of any society. Their contribution became even more evident during public health emergencies and periods of increased demand for medical services. However, healthcare systems can only function effectively when the workforce is motivated, adequately supported, and given opportunities for professional growth.

Nigeria’s healthcare sector continues to face serious challenges, including shortages of medical personnel, inadequate infrastructure, increasing patient loads, and the migration of skilled professionals to other countries in search of better opportunities.

The issue of brain drain has become a major concern nationwide. Thousands of Nigerian doctors have left the country in recent years, citing poor remuneration, limited career prospects, difficult working conditions, and inadequate support systems.

Edo State is not immune to this challenge. Like many states across the federation, it has had to contend with the loss of experienced professionals and the pressure created by growing healthcare demands.

Governor Okpebholo believes that one of the most effective ways to retain healthcare workers is to ensure that career progression is predictable, transparent, and timely. Promotions serve as both a reward for service and an incentive for continued commitment.

By approving the promotions, he has addressed one of the concerns repeatedly raised by medical professionals and labour unions. It is a decision that is expected to improve morale and encourage greater commitment among healthcare workers.

The benefits will extend beyond the doctors themselves. A motivated healthcare workforce contributes directly to improved service delivery. Doctors who feel valued are more likely to remain in the system, mentor younger colleagues, pursue additional professional training, and take on leadership responsibilities within healthcare institutions.

Communities also stand to benefit from a more stable and motivated workforce. Patients depend on doctors not only for treatment but also for guidance, preventive care, and emergency medical support. Strengthening the welfare of healthcare workers ultimately strengthens the quality of healthcare available to citizens.

The approval further aligns with Governor Okpebholo’s broader healthcare reform agenda, which seeks to improve health infrastructure, expand access to quality medical services, and build a more efficient healthcare system across Edo State.

Yes, promotions alone cannot solve all the challenges facing the health sector, but the decision is an important step in the right direction. Issues such as infrastructure development, equipment upgrades, workforce expansion, and improved funding are also receiving the required attention.

Nevertheless, the promotion approval sends a clear message that the Okpebholo administration is a government that recognizes the value of its healthcare professionals and is prepared to address longstanding concerns affecting their welfare.

For doctors who spent years waiting for career advancement, the decision represents overdue recognition of their contributions. For the healthcare sector, it provides an opportunity to rebuild morale and strengthen institutional capacity. And for the people of Edo State, it offers renewed hope that a motivated and supported medical workforce will help deliver better healthcare outcomes in the years ahead.

After eight years of waiting, many doctors now see a pathway for growth and recognition. That alone represents a significant victory for the profession and for the future of healthcare in Edo State.

Dr. Ebojele has his PhD in Public Administration and is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State.

Davidson Ogbebor

Popular social media activist and influencer, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has once again captured national attention following his return to Nigeria and renewed involvement in public advocacy campaigns.

Videos circulating across social media platforms yesterday 10th June upon his return from China have shown the outspoken commentator participating in demonstrations and speaking out on issues ranging from insecurity to government accountability. He immediately led his ratel followers to the Nigeria Airforce Base in Abuja over insecurity issues and demanded answers.

The activist, who commands a large following among Nigerian youths, has consistently used his social media platforms to draw attention to matters affecting ordinary citizens. His latest appearances have generated widespread reactions online, with supporters praising his courage while critics question some of his methods and rhetoric.

In one of the widely shared videos, VeryDarkMan was seen addressing supporters and calling on authorities to take stronger action against insecurity and criminality across the country. The videos quickly gained traction on social media, sparking debates among Nigerians about governance, security, and civic engagement.

The activist’s return to the public spotlight comes at a time when concerns over kidnapping, banditry, and violent attacks remain major issues in several parts of the country. In recent statements, he has expressed frustration over the security situation and urged citizens to demand greater accountability from elected leaders.

VeryDarkMan has previously participated in public demonstrations, including protests in Abuja and Benue State, where he joined citizens demanding action on issues affecting their communities. His involvement in such causes has helped cement his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most visible social media activists.

Political analysts say the growing influence of social media personalities in public discourse reflects the increasing role of digital platforms in shaping conversations around governance and national development.

As videos of his recent activities continue to circulate online, it remains clear that VeryDarkMan’s voice continues to resonate with a significant segment of Nigeria’s youth population, many of whom view activism as an important tool for demanding change and accountability from public institutions.

Whether celebrated or criticized, the activist’s latest public engagements have once again demonstrated the power of social media in mobilizing public opinion and drawing attention to issues of national concern.

The Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) has reaffirmed its commitment to the full digitalisation of the haulage and produce sector in the state, urging all stakeholders to embrace the new system and comply with established regulations.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Executive Chairman of the EIRS, Mr. John Odior, FCA, ACTI, disclosed that the state’s new digital haulage administration and payment platform, which became operational on June 1, 2026, is now fully functional.

According to him, haulage operators are required to fund their digital wallets through designated vendors, after which payments are processed and validated through the scanning of QR code stickers affixed to registered trucks. An automated SMS notification is subsequently sent to confirm each transaction.

Odior stressed that the introduction of the digital platform is aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the administration of haulage revenues across the state.

He further announced that the use of Revenue Scratch Cards has been officially discontinued, warning that anyone found in possession of, selling, or issuing the banned cards would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The EIRS chairman noted that the haulage fees currently being charged in Edo State are in line with recent national tax reforms and remain among the most competitive in the country.

He called on corporate organisations, haulage companies, truck operators, and drivers to fully comply with the digital payment system, describing it as a critical step towards improving revenue administration and fostering economic growth in the state.

The statement was signed by the Head of Corporate Communications and Taxpayers Enlightenment Service, Courage Eboigbe, ANIPR, MNIM, ACTI.

Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has pledged to strengthen collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment to protect and preserve the state’s ecosystem, assuring that his administration will take decisive measures to address environmental challenges, including encroachment on national parks and other protected areas.

Okpebholo made the commitment on Tuesday when the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Benin City.

The governor said environmental protection remains a major priority of his administration, stressing that sustainable management of natural resources is critical to the state’s development and the well-being of its citizens.

According to him, the state government will establish a committee to tackle the growing problem of encroachment into national parks and other conservation areas.

“The Edo State Government is ready to partner with the Federal Ministry of Environment to protect our environment and ensure sustainable development for our people,” Okpebholo said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government on policies and programmes aimed at safeguarding forests, wildlife and other natural resources, noting that environmental sustainability would continue to receive significant attention in the state.

The governor further emphasized that preserving the environment is essential for both present and future generations, pledging support for initiatives that promote conservation and sustainable development.

Earlier, the Minister of Environment commended the governor for his support for environmental programmes in Edo State and described the state as a leader in environmental management.

Lawal noted that Edo State’s establishment of a Forestry Commission demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability.

“Edo State has a Forestry Commission, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria, and this demonstrates the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability,” he said.

The minister also expressed concern over the increasing threat of deforestation, warning that indiscriminate tree felling poses serious environmental and economic risks.

He called for sustained efforts by governments at all levels and other stakeholders to protect the country’s forests and biodiversity.

The visit underscored the commitment of both the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Edo State Government to deepen cooperation in addressing environmental challenges and advancing sustainable development initiatives.

Signed

Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State

Davidson Ogbebor

Benin City-The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three public secondary schools in Akoko Edo Local Government Area as part of measures to safeguard students, teachers, and other school personnel.

The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo; Ososo Comprehensive High School, Ososo; and Makeke Secondary School, Makeke.

The directive, approved by Governor Monday Okpebholo, takes immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the government said the decision was taken in line with its commitment to protecting lives and property amid prevailing security concerns in the area.

According to the statement, all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools have been suspended pending further directives from the state government.

The government, however, clarified that students currently sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) would be allowed access to their examination centres under strict security arrangements coordinated by school authorities, security agencies, and community leaders.

Principals of the affected schools have been directed to ensure the safe and orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure all school facilities and equipment during the closure period, and maintain regular communication with the Edo State Government, the Chief Inspector of Education, and relevant security agencies.

They were also instructed to comply strictly with any additional directives that may be issued by the government.

The state government appealed to parents, guardians, and residents of the affected communities to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate fully with security agencies as efforts are intensified to maintain peace and ensure public safety.

It assured residents that all necessary measures are being taken to address the situation and restore normal academic activities as soon as conditions permit.

The statement was signed by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State.