The Edo State Government has directed security agencies to arrest and prosecute students involved in a viral bullying incident at Igbinedion Education Centre.
The directive was disclosed by the state Commissioner for Information, Kassim Afegbua, during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, March 16.
Afegbua said the government acted immediately after seeing video clips circulating online that showed some students allegedly assaulting a fellow student.
According to him, the incident sparked widespread concern among parents and members of the public regarding discipline within schools and the conduct of students.
“It is quite disturbing. When we heard the news and saw the clips of the video, we wondered what could have led to such behaviour. There is absolutely no justification for that kind of treatment. It is completely unacceptable,” he said.
The commissioner explained that the state authorities first ensured the expulsion of the students involved before directing the police to take further legal action.
He added that the government has instructed the Nigeria Police Force to ensure the students are arrested and investigated.
“We took action almost immediately, which resulted in the expulsion of the students involved. But beyond expulsion, the police have been asked to make sure those responsible are arrested and made to face the law,” Afegbua said.
He also revealed that he had contacted the Commissioner of Police in the state to confirm that the matter was being handled.
According to him, the police indicated that they were expecting the parents of the students involved to present them for questioning before the suspects are formally charged in court after investigations are concluded.
The viral footage showed two male students beating and kicking another student who was lying on the ground. One of the attackers was seen dragging the victim by his uniform and stepping on his chest while the boy cried out in pain.
A third student who recorded the incident could be heard in the video pleading with the attackers to stop.
The incident has since generated outrage on social media, with many Nigerians calling for stricter disciplinary measures and stronger safeguards against bullying in schools.
See one of the videos here.
Read Also: Teen girl takes own life following persistent bullying over her mother’s looks
