Edo govt mobilises student leaders to champion anti-bullying campaign in schools
By Osho Olatomiwa
The Edo State Government has mobilised student leaders across public schools in Edo South Senatorial District to champion anti-bullying campaigns and report cases of intimidation, harassment and discrimination.
The initiative, organised by the Office of the First Lady, aims to equip student leaders with the knowledge and confidence to identify, prevent and report all forms of bullying.
Representing the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Barr. Nimata Umar Ikhilor, wife of the Secretary to the State Government, described bullying as a persistent problem that undermines students’ confidence, emotional well-being and academic performance.
She identified physical, verbal, emotional, social and cyberbullying as major forms of the menace, urging students to respect individual differences, support victims and report incidents to school authorities.
Ikhilor also emphasised the need to promote inclusion, particularly for children with disabilities and neurodivergent conditions.
Director of Stakeholders at the Ministry of Education, Mrs. Agbonze Uche Glory, said bullying had forced some students out of school, describing the student executives as government representatives expected to monitor and report incidents in their respective institutions.
Responding on behalf of the students, Ojiebhueku Monday Faith of Queen Ede Senior Secondary School pledged to extend the anti-bullying message across schools and media platforms.
The student leaders also pledged to promote kindness, friendship and zero tolerance for bullying.
The Office of the First Lady reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote safer, more inclusive and conducive learning environments across Edo State.
