The Edo State Police Command has arrested all suspects linked to a viral bullying incident at Igbinedion Education Centre, assuring that those involved will be prosecuted in line with juvenile justice laws.
The disturbing videos, which circulated widely on social media, showed students being beaten, flogged, and kicked by alleged senior colleagues, sparking outrage and concern across the state.
In a statement released on Saturday, the command’s spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed that investigations had been concluded and the suspects would be charged before the family court, in accordance with child protection regulations.
“The Edo State Police Command wishes to update the general public on the viral bullying incident which has generated widespread concern and reactions,” the statement read.
Police further disclosed that the situation escalated following a retaliatory attack a day after the initial incident. According to the command, a male student, whose mother had earlier been assaulted, attacked another student in what authorities described as a revenge act. The victim was reportedly the brother of the girls accused of assaulting the student’s mother.
In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police has ordered the усиление of the Operation Safe Schools Initiative across secondary schools in Edo State. The move is aimed at identifying supervision gaps and preventing similar occurrences.
Additionally, the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices has been activated to engage students and school authorities through awareness campaigns, sensitisation, and behavioural reorientation programmes.
The police urged parents, guardians, and school administrators to play a more active role in monitoring and guiding students, while advising young people to avoid violence and report grievances through appropriate channels.
While calling for calm among residents, the command assured that necessary steps were being taken to ensure justice and strengthen preventive measures.
The Edo State Ministry of Education also condemned the incident, describing the act as unacceptable and contrary to the values of discipline, respect, and safety expected in schools. Permanent Secretary Edith Ebomoyi reiterated the government’s stance against such behaviour.
Meanwhile, the management of Igbinedion Education Centre has expelled the students involved and pledged to enforce stricter measures to prevent a recurrence.
