The Edo State Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights has condemned the Ministry of Education over allegations that public school teachers are being forced to perform menial labour, including grass cutting and general maintenance.
The group described the directive as a violation of labour ethics and human rights, stressing that teachers were employed to educate, not to act as gardeners or janitors.
The statement, signed by Marxist Kola Edokpayi and Comrade Aghatise Raphael, Coordinator General and Secretary General of the coalition, declared that “teachers are the backbone of society and nation-builders entrusted with shaping the minds of our children. Reducing them to gardeners and cleaners is a shameful act of abuse and a slap in the face of every hardworking educator in Edo State.”
The group warned that unless the government stops the practice, it would embark on protests and initiate legal action. It also called on the state to employ and adequately pay dedicated support staff for school maintenance, urging accountability in the use of funds earmarked for infrastructure.
The coalition cited Section 34(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution, which prohibits forced or compulsory labour, as being contravened by the alleged directive.
Referencing Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, the group highlighted his prior assurance that teachers would be prioritised and that recruitment efforts would address shortages.
The coalition asserted, “To work is to pray, but we insisted that the sacred work of a teacher is to teach, not to clear bushes. Forcing them otherwise is against the law and will not be tolerated. An injury to one teacher is an injury to all.”
In response, Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, stated that information available suggested the menial work was part of voluntary Corporate Social Responsibility by some teachers.
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He announced that a full-scale investigation had been ordered to verify the allegations and address any irregularities.
The commissioner affirmed the government’s commitment to upholding teacher rights, urging educators to focus on academic excellence and discouraging participation in tasks that do not directly contribute to learning outcomes.
Dr Iyamu emphasised that the Okpebholo administration remains committed to improving the welfare of teachers through initiatives such as minimum wage increments, regularisation of casual staff, construction of teacher quarters, and continuous professional training.
He further urged the public to remain vigilant against attempts to discredit the ministry amidst ongoing reforms.
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