Edo Gov Sacks Secondary Education Board Chair, Appoints Successor

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has relieved Dr Maureen Ekhoragbon of her duties as the Chairperson of the State Senior Secondary Education Board, with immediate effect.

The decision was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ikhilor Musa, who also named Dr Rita Otibho Erewele as the new chairperson of the board.

While the statement did not provide specific reasons for Ekhoragbon’s removal, it described the appointment of Dr Erewele as part of the governor’s ongoing effort to reposition the education sector in the state.

According to the government’s statement, Dr Rita Erewele is “an accomplished educationist and administrator” with over two decades of experience in Nigeria’s education sector.

“She holds a PhD in Educational Administration and Planning, along with a master’s and bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Benin,” the statement noted.

It further highlighted Erewele’s career achievements, stating that she has served in various leadership positions, including as a lecturer, education consultant, and senior education officer, with a strong track record in policy development, teacher training, and curriculum enhancement.

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“Her contributions to policy development, teacher training, and curriculum enhancement have earned her recognition for excellence in academic leadership and educational reform,” the statement added.

The development comes amid a broader reform in Edo’s education system, following Governor Okpebholo’s approval of the absorption of 4,000 volunteer teachers under the EdoStar Teaching Programme and the recruitment of 500 new teachers to fill critical gaps in public schools across the state.

Earlier this month, the Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, said the move underscores the governor’s commitment to rewarding dedication and addressing teacher shortages in both primary and secondary schools.

“Come October 15, we are going to present letters of appointment to about 4,000 EdoStar volunteer teachers who have been teaching for the past three years,” Iyamu announced.

The shake-up at the education board and the ongoing teacher recruitment are seen as part of Okpebholo’s efforts to strengthen the education sector, enhance instructional quality, and ensure that Edo State maintains its reputation as a leader in public education reforms.