Security operatives stormed the premises of Authentic Royal Preparatory School in Benin City, Edo State, disrupting a Parents Teachers Association meeting just 24 hours after the state government revoked the school’s operational licence. The task force, led by the state government, arrived on Saturday, creating tension among parents and teachers.
The Edo State Ministry of Education had shut down the school, citing alleged inadequate infrastructure that hindered effective teaching and learning. The action was enforced by Director of Planning and Statistics Gabriel Orire, who led a team of officers to the school. The proprietor, Dr. Godsent Erhumwunse, claimed the government’s move was targeted at him rather than motivated by genuine concerns about the school’s standards.
According to parent Mrs. Igiehon, the security operatives entered the school in a commando‑style manner, harassing and ordering parents to leave. Some parents were reportedly traumatized, mistaking the government team for robbers. The operatives took control of the premises, forcing both parents and teachers to vacate.
Dr. Erhumwunse, who also serves as the State Controller of the Association of Formidable Education Development, asserted that the school possessed all necessary documents—approval, tax clearance, and renewal—up to date. The closure follows a recent inspection by Commissioner for Education Dr. Paddy Iyamu, with the government citing non‑compliance with relevant requirements as the reason.
The sudden shutdown has sparked controversy. The proprietor alleges a personal vendetta, while parents worry about the impact on students, many of whom are on scholarships. The incident underscores ongoing tensions between private school owners and the Edo State Government over taxation and education policies. The Association of Formidable Education Development, to which Dr. Erhumwunse belongs, had previously protested excessive taxation and the government’s directive to shift from formal to skills‑based education. The closure raises questions about the government’s approach to regulating private schools and ensuring access to quality education.
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