The Edo State Ministry of Education has opened an investigation into a violent assault involving students of Igbinedion Education Centre after footage of the incident spread widely on social media.
The video, which emerged on Friday, shows two students taking turns to attack a third pupil who is seen lying on the floor, unable to defend himself, while another student records the incident.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Edith Ebomoyi, the government described the conduct as unacceptable and incompatible with the standards expected of schools in Edo State.
Ebomoyi stressed that the safety and welfare of pupils remained a priority for the state.
The ministry announced the immediate constitution of a five-member investigative committee to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine responsibility.
According to it, disciplinary action would follow for anyone found culpable, in line with regulations governing schools in the state.
The incident occurred at the school’s premises in Benin City, prompting public outrage and fresh scrutiny of student discipline and supervision in private schools.
Separately, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) confirmed that parents of the affected student have been invited to file a formal complaint to enable an official investigation.
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The management of Igbinedion Education Centre has since expelled the two students alleged to have carried out the assault.
The statement read:
"The Edo State Ministry of Education has received with deep concern the disturbing video currently circulating on social media showing a student physically assaulting another student at Igbinedion Education Centre, Benin City.
"The Ministry strongly condemns this act of violence in the strongest possible terms. Such behaviour is completely unacceptable and runs contrary to the values of discipline, respect, and safety, which all educational institutions in Edo State are expected to uphold. The safety and well-being of every child in our schools remains a top priority of the Edo State Government.
"Following this disturbing development, the Ministry has immediately constituted a five-man investigative committee to thoroughly investigate the incident. The committee has been mandated to urgently unravel the circumstances surrounding the occurrence and identify all students found culpable.
"Appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken against anyone found responsible in accordance with the rules and regulations guiding conduct in schools within Edo State. The Ministry will not tolerate acts of bullying, violence, or any form of misconduct that threatens the safety of students.
"The Ministry also urges school authorities to reinforce guidance, discipline, and monitoring of students to maintain a safe and conducive learning environment.
"Further updates will be communicated upon the conclusion of the committee’s investigation."