The Edo State Police Command of the Nigeria Police Force has initiated a comprehensive investigation into a disturbing bullying incident at Igbinedion Secondary School, which gained widespread attention through a viral video. This development was confirmed by Eno Ikoedem, the Police Public Relations Officer, who stated that the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has directed the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the area to proceed to the school and commence a detailed inquiry into the matter.

The viral footage depicted a brutal assault where two male students were seen repeatedly assaulting a fellow student who had fallen to the ground. One of the attackers was seen dragging the victim by his school uniform and stomping on his chest and head while the boy cried out in pain. A third student, who was recording the incident, could be heard begging them to stop. This disturbing video quickly sparked widespread outrage on social media platforms, prompting strong condemnation from various quarters, including Afrobeat singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, who expressed his outrage on X, branding the perpetrators as “Fuckin animals… so disgusting.”

In response to the egregious act, the management of Igbinedion Education Centre, which owns the secondary school in Benin City, took immediate disciplinary measures. In an official statement, the school confirmed its awareness of the video, describing the actions as a “serious incident of bullying and physical assault involving students at the school.” The statement, signed by the management of Igbinedion Montessori Nursery/Primary School and Igbinedion Junior/Senior Secondary School, including Acting Principal Mrs. Ann Apeh, Mr. Towe V. Iroro, Mr. O. E. Akinkuowo, and Mr. Collins Emokpae, emphasized that such behavior directly contradicts the institution’s core principles and its strict zero-tolerance policy toward bullying, cultism, intimidation, harassment, and any form of violence.

Following an immediate investigation, the students found responsible for the act of bullying were expelled from the institution with immediate effect. Additionally, the student who recorded the incident was suspended. The school also confirmed that the case had been reported to the relevant authorities and expressed its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation, while also ensuring steps were being taken to support the students affected by the incident and working closely with their families.

The Edo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to justice, assuring the public that the perpetrators involved in the bullying incident will be arrested and made to face the law accordingly, in line with their respective ages and in accordance with the provisions of the law. The police also strongly condemned acts of bullying, violence, or intimidation among students, warning that anyone found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law. Members of the public are encouraged to remain calm and continue to support the Police with credible information that can aid the ongoing investigation.