The Edo State government has acceded to the demand by the Catholic Church for the return of its primary and secondary schools taken over years ago by the government.
Newsmata.com.ng reports that this landmark policy decision was announced on Monday by Governor Monday Okpebholo following a meeting between him and the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Gabriel G. Dunia, at the Government House, Benin City, Edo State capital.
The governor said a committee that would identify the specific schools to be handed over would be set up. He clarified that any of the affected schools currently undergoing renovation by the state government would remain under its supervision until their completion.
Among the schools expected to be affected by this policy are prominent institutions such as Our Lady of Fatima College, Auchi; St. Angela’s Grammar School, Uzairue; St. John Grammar School, Fugar; St. Peter’s Grammar School, Agenebode; St. James’s Grammar School, Afuze; St. Joseph College, Otuo; St. Mary Grammar School, Eme-Ora; and St. Aloysius Gonzaga Grammar School, Ososo.
Bishop Dunia stated that despite persistent appeals to previous administrations to this effect, the state government had not positively responded until now.
Underscoring the strategic importance of these educational institutions to the Catholic mission, Bishop Dunia emphasised their role not only in the intellectual formation of children, but also in fostering “ideal moral character, which constitute the bedrock of good society.”
This approval marks a significant step towards addressing long-standing grievances and potentially enhancing educational standards through faith-based initiatives in Edo State.