The proprietor of Authentic Royal Preparatory School in Benin City, Edo State, has criticised the government’s decision to revoke his school’s operating licence, describing it as an act of vendetta.
Dr Godsent Erhumwunse, who also serves as the State Controller of the Association of Formidable Education Development (AFED), stated that the school had met all requirements and held valid approvals from the state.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, he alleged the closure order was politically motivated and targeted at him personally. “My school meets all requirements and was approved by the state government. This is not about standards; it is about vendetta,” he said.
The protest follows recent tensions between private school associations and the state government. On September 16, the Coalition of Association of Private Schools, which includes AFED, staged a protest against what it called excessive taxation and directives on transitioning to skills-based education.
However, the Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, ordered the school’s closure, citing non-compliance. Gabriel Orire, Director of Planning and Statistics, stated that the school fell short of minimum standards, particularly in the areas of health, safety, and infrastructure.
The ministry stated that the school must remain closed until the deficiencies are corrected and clearance is granted.
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