Dare Babalola
The Edo State Government has mandated the arrest and prosecution of students from Igbinedion Education Centre implicated in a viral bullying case, condemning the act as “disturbing and unacceptable”.
The development was made public on Monday by the state Commissioner for Information, Kassim Afegbua, during an interview on Channels Television programme, Sunrise Daily.
The commissioner revealed that upon viewing the video, the government sprang into action, launching an investigation into the alleged bullying incident.
He noted that the incident had sparked widespread concern among parents and concerned Nigerians, highlighting worries about student conduct and discipline in schools.
“It is quite disturbing. When we heard the news and saw the clips of the video, we were wondering what could have warranted such behaviour,” he said.
Stressing that there could be no justification for students bullying their peers, Afegbua added, “There will be no justification for that kind of treatment. It is very unacceptable”.
According to him, the state government moved swiftly by expelling the students involved while also directing the police to ensure that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
“We took action almost immediately that led to the expulsion of the students involved. But it is not just about expulsion; we also directed the police to make sure the students are properly arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law,” Afegbua said.
The commissioner disclosed that he had also contacted the state Commissioner of Police to ensure that necessary steps were being taken in the investigation.
“I placed a call to the Commissioner of Police this morning to be sure they are taking steps. He told me he is expecting the parents to bring the students involved, and after investigations, they will be charged in court,” he said.
Afegbua described the incident as a wake-up call to parents and teachers, stressing the need for stronger supervision and discipline in schools to prevent similar occurrences.
Recall that two male students, in a viral clip shared on X, were seen beating and kicking another student who was lying on the ground.
One of the students was captured dragging the victim by his suit and stomping on his chest while the boy cried in pain, as a third student who recorded the incident pleaded with them to stop.
The video sparked widespread outrage on social media, prompting disciplinary action by the school authorities.
The Edo State Police Command had summoned the school management to hand over the students involved for investigation and possible prosecution, as the state government promised sanctions for anyone found culpable.
