Return of Schools to Missions’ll Create Religious Tension, Security Challenges, Muslim Group Warns Okpebholo

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The recent decision by the Edo State government to return some faith-based schools to their founders has not gone down well with the Muslim community in the state which warned against its religious and security implications.
Recall that Governor Monday Okpebholo had on Monday June 16, 2025, announced the decision following a meeting between him and the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Gabriel G. Dunia, at Government House, Benin City, the state capital.
The governor said a committee would be set up to identify the specific schools that would be handed over. Most of the affected schools were founded by the Catholic Church.
But reacting to the development, the Association of Muslim Professionals, (AMP) kicked against such move arguing that it could deepen religious divisions among Edo people and damage the peaceful coexistence among different faiths in the state.
Alhaji Madu Mammadi, AMP Chairman, cautioned in a statement on Wednesday that “transferring ownership of public schools to churches could endanger about 40 per cent of the state’s Muslim population”, as well as intensify religious tensions in Edo, “something that no one may be able to fully control if the consequences spiral out of hand.”
While appealing to Governor Okpebholo to rescind the decision in the public interest, the body submitted that the action might create avoidable religious tensions and potential security challenges that could be difficult to contain or reverse once they were set in motion.
Mammadi said, “We write on behalf of our members to appreciate your good work since assuming office as Governor of Edo State on November 12 last year.
“We have been firmly behind your programmes and policies so far, especially in mobilising support from the Muslim community for the implementation of your SHINE Agenda.
“We proudly say a new Edo has risen through your leadership”.
Mammadi contended that “Although Christian missionaries initiated some of these schools, others originated from Muslim initiatives, such as the Muslim secondary school previously located near the Central Park.
According to the body, “It is also important to note that these lands were donated by local communities, many of whom are predominantly Muslim and supported public education development for all.
“Additionally, most original church structures have been replaced with buildings funded by taxpayers, both Christians and Muslims further underscoring the shared ownership of these educational institutions”.
Mammadi further argued that the policy would make quality education less accessible to children in Edo, especially those from Muslim backgrounds who may feel excluded or marginalised.
While therefore appealing to Governor Okpebholo to reconsider this policy decision, the AMP said they were open to participating in stakeholder engagements or public hearings if necessary.