The simmering tension over the Edo State Government’s decision to hand over several public schools to the Catholic Mission has escalated into a legal battle, as the Edo Muslims for Good Governance (EMGG) has filed a suit challenging the move.
The case, marked HAG/15/2025, was brought before the Edo State High Court, with EMGG arguing that the government’s action violates the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion and protection against discrimination. The group insists that the decision was taken without consultation with Muslim stakeholders or other religious communities, thereby undermining inclusivity in public policy.
Among the schools already earmarked for transfer are St. Maria Goretti Girls Grammar School in Benin City, Annunciation Catholic College in Irrua, St. Angela’s Girls Grammar School in Uzairue, and Obaseki Primary School in Benin City.
EMGG further alleges that the government plans to hand over an additional 36 public schools to the Catholic Mission, a move they describe as discriminatory and lacking legislative approval.
In its petition, EMGG asked the court to restrain the state government from transferring any public school to a religious organisation without due process and equal consideration for all faiths.
At the initial hearing, counsel to the Edo State Government informed the court that they had not yet filed a response to the suit. Presiding judge Justice Ovenseri Aghamieghen Otameri adjourned the matter to December 9, 2025, for further proceedings.
The case has sparked widespread debate in Edo State, with critics warning that the transfer of public schools to a single religious institution could deepen sectarian divides and erode the secular foundation of public education. Supporters of the government’s move, however, argue that faith-based institutions have historically played a role in improving educational standards.
For EMGG, the lawsuit represents a broader struggle for religious equity and constitutional adherence in governance. The group maintains that education policy must reflect the diversity of Edo’s population and avoid privileging one faith over another.
