The Edo State Government has hit back at what it describes as a coordinated attempt to glorify the education reforms of former governor Godwin Obaseki, calling the narrative a “false romanticisation” of a failed system.

In a statement issued by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, the government said the former administration’s much-publicised reforms were a “political gimmick” that exploited Edo teachers and misled the public.

“The Obaseki-led government did not reform education; it weaponised it for political survival,” Itua said. “Teachers were drawn into the system without proper employment letters, pension rights, or confirmation of their civil service status for more than three years.”

He accused the previous administration of turning teachers into political tools rather than professionals, making them attend endless unpaid training sessions while denying them full employment benefits. “They were used for photo ops and propaganda. And when elections were over, they were abandoned,” he said.

The statement also described the EdoBEST programme as “a digital façade built on lies,” claiming that while the project painted a picture of innovation, classrooms across rural communities remained dilapidated and teachers struggled with poor working conditions.

Itua said the current government is focused on restoring transparency and merit in education, noting that over 5,000 qualified Edo state teachers have now been formally absorbed into the civil service through a fair recruitment process.

“This administration is not chasing headlines,” he added. “Funds meant for schools will reach schools. Teachers will be respected, trained, and properly paid. Edo’s education is being rebuilt, not rebranded.”

He concluded by saying the new government’s focus is on truth, accountability, and genuine reform, not propaganda. “The era of deception is over. A new Edo is rising on the strength of honesty, service, and real progress,” Itua noted.

You may also like