Security operatives stormed the premises of Authentic Royal Preparatory School in Benin City, Edo State, disrupting a Parents Teachers Association meeting, barely 24 hours after the state government revoked the school’s operational license. The operatives, led by the state government’s task force, arrived at the school on Saturday, causing tension among parents and teachers.
The Edo State Ministry of Education had shut down the school due to alleged inadequate infrastructure, which hindered effective teaching and learning. The ministry’s action was enforced by the Director of Planning and Statistics, Gabriel Orire, who led other officers to the school. The school’s proprietor, Dr. Godsent Erhumwunse, alleged that the government’s action was targeted at him, rather than a genuine concern for the school’s standards.
According to a parent, Mrs. Igiehon, the security operatives invaded the school premises in a commando-style, harassing and ordering parents to leave the premises. Some parents were reportedly traumatized, mistaking the government team for robbers. The operatives took over the school premises, forcing parents and teachers to vacate the area.
The school’s closure has sparked controversy, with the proprietor alleging that the government’s action was motivated by personal vendetta. Dr. Erhumwunse, who is also the State Controller of the Association of Formidable Education Development, claimed that the school had all necessary documents, including approval, tax, and renewal, up to date.
The Edo State Government’s decision to close the school follows a recent inspection exercise carried out by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu. The government’s directive cited non-compliance with relevant requirements as the reason for the closure. However, the school’s proprietor and parents have expressed concern over the sudden closure, citing the impact on students who are on scholarships.
The incident has highlighted the ongoing tensions between private school owners and the Edo State Government over issues such as taxation and education policies. The Association of Formidable Education Development, to which the school’s proprietor belongs, had previously protested against excessive taxation and the government’s directive on transitioning from formal to skills-based education. The closure of Authentic Royal Preparatory School has raised questions about the government’s approach to regulating private schools and ensuring access to quality education.
