EDSG GBV Committee Storms Igbinedion Education Over Viral Bullying Incident

By Rosemary Okoduwa

The Edo State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee has paid an official visit to Igbinedion Education Centre following a viral bullying incident involving students of the school.

The delegation was led by the Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Joy Ihensekhien.

Speaking during the visit, Mrs. Anani noted that the committee has been actively working across the state to combat all forms of gender-based violence. She explained that the purpose of the visit was to thoroughly investigate the incident, identify both the perpetrators and the victim, and evaluate existing measures put in place by the school to prevent a recurrence.

She reaffirmed the Edo State Government’s unwavering commitment to the safety, protection, and overall well-being of every child, stressing a strict zero-tolerance stance on bullying, violence, and all forms of child abuse.

Mrs. Anani further emphasised the need for continuous sensitisation, adding that the committee would intensify advocacy visits to schools to educate students on their rights and promote safer learning environments.

In her remarks, the Deputy Chairman of the Board of the school, Lady Cherry Igbinedion, described the incident as unfortunate and inconsistent with the institution’s long standing values of discipline and moral upbringing.

She explained that the incident stemmed from a dispute between students, which escalated after a student allegedly disrespected a parent. According to her, the situation later degenerated into retaliation, when another student, angered by the treatment of his mother, attacked the sibling of the alleged offender.

Lady Igbinedion confirmed that swift disciplinary actions were taken, including the expulsion of students directly involved in the assault. She added that the victim received medical attention, while the case has been reported to security agencies, including the police and the Department of State Services (DSS), for further investigation.

She reiterated the school’s strict anti-bullying policy, noting that students and parents are provided with a handbook clearly outlining behavioural expectations and consequences for misconduct.