By SEGUN ADEWOLE

The Edo State Government has suspended the principal of Edo College, Benin City, Mr. Peter Edomwonyi, over a viral video showing senior students of the school abusing their juniors.

The PUNCH reported that the senior students could be seen severely whipping one junior student with belts, after which they came down on him with blows and kicks.

Another junior student could be seen stripped naked as the seniors continued to abuse them.

Reacting, the Secretary to Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq, in a statement on Tuesday described the video as disturbing.

He said the “disturbing video exposed the incompetence of the management of the school authority and the delinquent behaviour of the students who carried out the abusive action.”

Stating the government’s action, he said, “The Principal of Edo College, Mr. Peter Edomwonyi, has been instructed to proceed on suspension effective immediately. He is to hand over all property and assets of the school in his possession to the next most senior Vice-Principal of the school. He is to remain on suspension until the investigation of the incident is concluded and government provides further directive on the matter.

“The House Master for Akenzua Hall of Residence, Mr. Oamen Stanley, has also been suspended indefinitely, with immediate effect.

“All the students involved in the abusive behaviour have been handed over to the Ministry of Justice for investigation and prosecution in accordance with the Child Rights Law.

“The Edo State Ministry of Health is reaching out to the victims to ascertain the state of their health and provide the necessary support.

“The Edo State Government is committed to maintaining a school environment that is safe for children and offers apologies to the victims of the abuse, their parents and members of the public.” (The PUNCH)

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