The Edo state government has suspended the principal at Edo College, Benin after a viral video showed seniors students assaulting their juniors.
According to NAN, Osarodion Ogie, secretary to the state government, broke the news in a statement on Tuesday.
The statement directed Peter Edomwonyi, the principal, to proceed on immediate suspension pending the conclusion of an investigation into the matter.
It also announced the indefinite suspension of Oamen Stanley, the housemaster for Akenzua hall of residence.
Ogie said the state ministry of education on enquiry discovered that the incident took place at the college premises and involved senior secondary students of Akenzua hall of residence who were writing final exams.
“The disturbing video exposed the incompetence of the management of the school authority and the delinquent behaviour of the students who carried out the abusive action,” the secretary said.
“On account of the above, the government has taken the following actions, the Principal of Edo College, Mr Peter Edomwonyi, has been instructed to proceed on suspension effective immediately.
“He is to hand over all property and assets of the school in his possession to the next most senior vice-principal of the school.
“He is to remain on suspension until an investigation of the incident is concluded and the government provides further directive on the matter.
“The House Master for Akenzua Hall of Residence, Master Oamen Stanley, has also been suspended indefinitely with immediate effect.
“All the students involved in the abusive behaviour have been handed over to the Ministry of Justice for investigation and prosecution in accordance with the Child Rights Law.’’
According to Ogie, the Edo ministry of health is reaching out to the victims to ascertain the state of their health and provide the necessary support.
“The Edo state government is committed to maintaining a school environment that is safe for children and apologises to the victims of the abuse, their parents and members of the public,” he added.
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