By
Editor
The Edo Muslims for Equity and Good Governance (EMEGG) has strongly criticized the Edo State Government’s decision to hand over public schools to Catholic missions despite widespread opposition by stakeholders, describing it as “unjust, unfair, and a dangerous step backward” for education in the state.
In a statement signed by its coordinator, Amir Sirajudeen Muhammad, the group said the handover, carried out on August 6, 2025, through the Commissioner for Education, Hon Paddy Iyamu was implemented despite strong opposition from key stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), and the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN).
The group argued that the decision would deprive poor families of free and quality education, violate community ownership of the schools, reverse gains made under the national education policy, and risk reintroducing religious discrimination in the school system.
EMEGG also warned that teachers’ jobs and welfare could be jeopardized as schools move from public to private control.
EMEGG urged Governor Monday Okpebholo to reverse the policy, stressing that education must remain a constitutional responsibility of the state and be free from religious bias.
It also called on civil society groups, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and citizens to join in opposing the move.
“Our schools belong to the people. Our teachers are not disposable. Our children’s future is not for sale,” the statement concluded.
