In a surprising turn of events, the Edo State government, under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki, has announced an indefinite postponement of school resumption citing the significant increase in fuel prices.
The decision, impacting both public and private schools, was disclosed in a memo issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Ojo Akin-Longe, on Saturday in Benin. Originally slated to resume on September 9, 2024, schools throughout the state will now remain closed until further notice."
The memo cited economic challenges and escalating tension due to the surge in fuel prices as the primary reasons for the postponement. Akin-Longe explained, "This decision is a response to the growing tension and challenges arising from the recent fuel price hike." He also urged parents, guardians, and caregivers to oversee their children during this uncertain period.
However, the government's choice has stirred controversy, with the opposition APC in Edo State branding it a political tactic at the expense of education. Peter Uwadiae-Enosorogbe, the APC's Publicity Secretary, criticized the move, accusing the government of prioritizing politics over children's education. In an interview with NAN, Uwadiae-Enosorogbe argued, "It's unacceptable to compromise our children's education due to fuel price increases."
He highlighted the lack of significant parental outcry or protests linking fuel price hikes to school attendance issues, questioning the rationale behind the government's decision. Uwadiae-Enosorogbe emphasized, "The state government has erred. This decision does not serve the students, parents, or the educational system well," urging a reversal of the suspension.
Uwadiae-Enosorogbe also voiced concerns about the prolonged impact of the delay, emphasizing the declining performance of Edo State students in recent WASSCE exams. He highlighted Edo's drop to 26th place in national rankings, a significant regression from previous years. "How will the government address the lost time for students?" he questioned, noting that many parents had already paid fees and bought textbooks for the new term.
The APC spokesperson called on stakeholders to step in and urge the government to rethink its decision. "The students are eager to resume classes, and politics should not obstruct their education. This move is misguided and benefits no one," Uwadiae-Enosorogbe concluded.
As the controversy surrounding school resumption continues, the Edo State government stands by its choice, leaving students, parents, and educators eagerly anticipating further updates.
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