Edo govt moves to prosecute students in viral Igbinedion school video
Edo State Government Orders Arrests Following School Bullying Incident
The Edo State Government has initiated measures to address a viral bullying incident that occurred at Igbinedion Secondary School, mandating the arrest and prosecution of students involved. This action follows the emergence of a distressing video on Friday that captured the violent encounter among students.
In the footage, two male students are depicted attacking a fellow student, who is on the ground. One of the assailants can be seen dragging the victim by his uniform and stomping on his chest and head while the victim cries out in distress. A bystander, who recorded the incident, can be heard asking the attackers to stop.
The video has garnered significant attention on social media, provoking widespread condemnation from the public and calls for accountability from authorities.
Edo State Commissioner for Information Kassim Afegbua addressed the situation during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday. He stated that the government has instructed the police to take legal action against those responsible.
“Three students were involved in the incident, and the Commissioner of Police has requested that the parents and students report to the command. They will face prosecution,” Afegbua noted. He emphasized that even though the suspects are minors, the legal system includes provisions for handling such cases.
“Juvenile correctional centers are available for minors if the courts decide on prosecution,” he added. Afegbua characterized the incident as “deeply disturbing,” emphasizing the need for parents and school authorities to exercise greater oversight over student behavior.
“This situation is concerning. It would be heartbreaking if a child went to school and the next thing heard is that they suffered severe harm due to the reckless actions of peers,” he remarked.
Additionally, Commissioner Afegbua revealed that Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has ordered a comprehensive investigation by the Edo State Police Command to ensure accountability.
“We are treating this matter very seriously. The governor has instructed the police to pursue charges and conduct inquiries into the broader environment within the school to eliminate such behavior,” he stated.
A five-member investigative committee has been established to delve into the circumstances surrounding the incident, gather witness testimonies, and explore any additional incidents that may have been overlooked.
“People are starting to come forward with information about similar occurrences that we were previously unaware of, indicating that there may be more to this situation,” the commissioner reported. The committee is currently collecting statements from students and witnesses, including those wishing to remain anonymous, before presenting its findings to the government.
