4th from (R), Lady Cherry Igbinedion and members of Edo Gender Based Violence Committee
From our news desk, Benin
The Edo State Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Management Committee, led by the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has paid an official visit to the Igbinedion Education Centre following a viral bullying incident involving students of the school.
Mrs. Anani represented by the Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien, stated that the committee was on an investigative mission to the school to identify both the perpetrators and victim, with view to assessing measures put in place to prevent future occurrences.
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Mrs. Anani added that the Committee has been working across the State to combat all forms of gender-based violence.
This was contained in a press release by the director, media, in the Ministry, Daisy Osunde and circulated amongst journalists in Benin.
Anani reassured that the Edo State Government remains fully committed to the safety, protection, and overall well-being of every child in the state, Osunde said.
As she was quoted to have reaffirmed the Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration firm zero-tolerance policy on violence, bullying, and all forms of child abuse.
She was said to have also highlighted the importance of continuous sensitization, declaring; that the committee would intensify advocacy visits to schools across the State, to educate students on their rights and promote safer learning environments.
Also speaking, the Deputy Chairman of the Board, Igbinedion Education Centre, Lady Cherry Igbinedion expressed concern over the incident which she described as unfortunate, and contrary to the institution’s long-standing values of discipline and moral upbringing.
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The incident she explained; originated from a dispute between students, bordering on insulting each other’s parents. It later snowballed into retaliatory acts.
Lady Igbinedion confirmed that disciplinary measures were swiftly taken, including the expulsion of the students directly involved in the assault, Osunde said.
While the victim was also taken for medical evaluation, and the case since been reported to security agencies including the police and the Department of State Services (DSS), for further investigation.
She was said to have reemphasized the school’s strict anti-bullying policy, pointing out that all students and parents are provided with a handbook clearly outlining behavioral expectations and consequences for misconduct.
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