Major education unions in Edo State have voiced strong opposition to the state government’s plan to return some public schools to their original missionary owners. The proposal, announced by Governor Monday Okpebholo on June 16th, has been met with resistance from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), and the Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON).
In a joint letter dated June 24th, the unions expressed concerns that the handover could compromise the secular nature of public education, limit access for children from low-income families, and potentially ignite religious tension within the state. They emphasized that government involvement has ensured education remains accessible, affordable, and secular, and argued that returning schools to missionary owners threatens to erode these gains.
The unions cautioned that missionary schools are often characterized by high tuition fees and religious-centric curricula, which could exclude disadvantaged children and conflict with national education standards. They also warned that granting the Catholic Church’s request could prompt similar demands from other religious groups, leading to a fragmentation of the education system and increased inequality.
Furthermore, the unions raised questions regarding the future of public servants currently employed in the affected schools, inquiring about potential transfers or layoffs. They cited examples of schools like St. Joseph’s Grammar School in Otuo, which serves seven quarters and would leave the community without a government school if returned to missionary control, potentially violating the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Act.
The unions urged Governor Okpebholo to reconsider the decision and instead focus on investing in strengthening the public education system. They advised suspending any plans to return public schools to religious organizations pending wider consultation with relevant stakeholders. While reaffirming their commitment to supporting government policies aimed at improving education, the unions insisted that such initiatives must prioritize equity and access for all.
