Amid the controversy over the return of eight schools to missionary organizations by the Edo State government, Governor Monday Okpebholo has again released 28 additional schools to the organizations.

Ekwutosblog reports that Okpebholo had on June 16, 2025 after a meeting with Bishop Gabriel Dunia of the Catholic Diocese of Auchi announced the hand over of the schools to the missionary organizations.

Meanwhile one week after, the governor has again announced the handing over of another 28 schools to the missionary organizations.

The affected schools include Catholic secondary and primary schools across the three senatorial districts.

The governor, after the announcement, however, disclosed that a committee would be set up to precisely identify all schools to be handed over.

He also clarified that any affected schools currently undergoing renovation by the state government will remain under its supervision until completion.

The development had generated a lot of reactions from the Muslim community in the state who lambasted the governor for taking a unilateral decision without calling for a stakeholders’ meeting.

In a recent communique, the Nigerian Supreme Council Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, Edo State chapter urged the government to stay action on the handing over of the schools until alternative solutions for those who are going to be affected are provided.

The communique signed by its chairman, Alhaji Abdulazeez Nosakhare Igbinidu, appealed to the government to maintain the current harmonious relationship among Edo citizens.

“We plead with the government to consult more with stakeholders with the intention of ameliorating the negative effects the above points will cause,” the NSCIA said.

It noted that Muslims and others who do not share the Catholic faith are apprehensive about the government’s proposal due to its potential implications.

“Governments over time have invested in these schools, providing benefits to all residents regardless of their religious affiliations.

“The handing over of these schools may deny some students access to free education, which your administration currently provides.

“Not all citizens can afford exorbitant fees charged by private schools, making it essential to maintain accessible public education.

“The free education you are presently providing to students in public schools will definitely elude those who are presently enjoying it in these schools.

“Not every individual or family can afford private school, and this will lead to an increase in school dropouts for those who don’t have alternatives.

“The possibility of none catholic children being forced to imbibe principles at variance with their present faith when there are no alternatives can not be ruled out,” the communique added.