The Igbinedion Education Centre (IEC) has expelled two students who were seen in a viral video assaulting a co-student of the school.
In a statement on Friday, the school described the behaviour as disturbing and contrary to the values it upholds.
“Following an immediate investigation, the students responsible have been expelled from the school with immediate effect. Such conduct will never be tolerated within our school community,” the statement said.
The school also confirmed that the incident had been reported to the relevant authorities and that it was cooperating fully, noting that the students involved are minors.
“We are providing support to those affected and are working closely with their families to ensure the matter is addressed with the seriousness it deserves,” the statement added.
It reiterated its strict zero-tolerance policy against bullying, intimidation, harassment, cultism, and any form of violence.
Police Condemn Incident
Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Command, Eno Ikoedem, has asked the victim and his parents to come forward and lodge a formal complaint so the investigation can commence.
“I have seen the video, and the only thing I can say for now is that the boy and his parents should come forward and make a complaint so that an investigation can begin,” Ikoedem added.
“Bullying is a criminal offence. No one is allowed to beat up and dehumanise someone like that. That is somebody’s child, irrespective of whatever crime he may have committed,” he said.
Edo Govt Probes Incident
In the meantime, the Edo State Government has expressed “deep concern” over the “disturbing video”.
The Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Ministry of Education, Edith Ebomoyi, said the incident is under probe.
“Following this disturbing development, the Ministry has immediately constituted a five-man investigative committee to thoroughly investigate the incident,” Ebomoyi said in a statement.
“The committee has been mandated to urgently unravel the circumstances surrounding the occurrence and identify all students found culpable,” the ministry said.
Ebomoyi said appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken against anyone found responsible in accordance with the rules and regulations guiding conduct in schools within Edo State.
“The Ministry will not tolerate acts of bullying, violence, or any form of misconduct that threatens the safety of students,” the statement read in part.
It assured parents, school administrators, and the public that the ministry will ensure that justice is served and that necessary steps are taken to prevent a recurrence of such incidents in any school across the state.
The ministry advised school authorities to reinforce guidance, discipline, and monitoring of students to maintain a safe and conducive learning environment.
“Further updates will be communicated upon the conclusion of the committee’s investigation,” the ministry said.
The disturbing video of the incident captured two male students attacking another student while a third student filmed the assault.
Although the exact time of the incident is unclear, the development has triggered widespread outrage and condemnation, especially among social media users.
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