The Edo State Ministry of Education has condemned the violent act against a student of the Igbinedion Education Centre by two other students of the same school, calling such behaviour completely unacceptable and contrary to values of discipline, respect, and safety expected in educational institutions.
A disturbing video went viral on Friday showing two students taking turns to brutalize another student who was lying helpless on the floor, with footage revealing the victim being beaten, kicked, dragged across the floor and struck with a belt while crying in pain. Management of Igbinedion Education Centre has expelled the students involved in the bullying and physical assault incident following an immediate investigation.
In a statement released on Saturday by the ministry's permanent secretary, Edith Ebomoyi, the ministry said appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken against anyone found responsible in accordance with school conduct rules. The Ministry has constituted a five-man investigative committee to thoroughly probe the incident and unravel the circumstances surrounding the assault.
The Edo State Police Command has asked the victim's parents to come forward and file a formal complaint to enable police to commence investigation into the matter. The school maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward bullying, cultism, intimidation, harassment, and any form of violence.
The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has also strongly condemned the incident, with Commissioner Eugenia Abdallah describing it as deeply troubling and unacceptable. The school is providing support to those affected and working closely with their families to address the matter with appropriate seriousness.
