Our reporter
In a statement made available to Uptown Press Nigeria, the Edo Supporting Teachers to Achieve Results (EdoSTAR) Fellows have strongly rebutted allegations made by the Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, accusing the hardworking educators of being “unqualified teachers.”
The Fellows, a group of dedicated individuals committed to improving education in Edo State, have expressed their deep concern over what they describe as “repeated and unfair attacks” on their professionalism and integrity. The controversy stems from a series of public remarks made by Dr. Iyamu, most notably in an interview on Channels Television on 25th April 2025, where he claimed that an EdoSTAR Fellow had marked a pupil’s notebook incorrectly, citing a spelling error as evidence of their incompetence.
However, the Fellows have refuted this claim, explaining that the teacher in question was temporarily covering for a full-time colleague who had been absent that day. The error, they assert, had been made by the regular teacher the previous day, a detail conveniently omitted in the Commissioner’s version of events. The Fellows argue that the Commissioner’s selective portrayal of this incident misrepresents the facts and unfairly tarnishes their reputation.
The EdoSTAR Fellows are emphatic in their response, asserting that they are indeed qualified educators. Many hold degrees in Education, while others possess Postgraduate Diplomas in Education (PGDE) after transitioning from other fields. They undergo rigorous training in modern teaching techniques and are dedicated to improving the learning outcomes of students across the State.
“EDO STAR FELLOWS ARE QUALIFIED EDUCATORS,” the statement reads. “They are graduates from reputable institutions, many with degrees in Education or Postgraduate Diplomas in Education. They undergo rigorous training in modern teaching methods and are committed to improving learning outcomes across Edo State.”
The Fellows also express concern that the Commissioner’s comments, which they believe were aimed at scoring political points, have been damaging not only to their morale but also to the education system as a whole. They urge Dr. Iyamu to retract his baseless claims, engage with the program constructively, and cease using educators as pawns in political disputes.
“We understand that the Commissioner may have political differences with the previous administration. However, EdoSTAR Fellows are not political appointees. We are educators, Edo indigenes, and professionals who deserve to be treated with respect,” the statement continues. “Teaching is already a challenging profession; adding public vilification only demoralizes those striving to make a difference in our classrooms.”
The EdoSTAR Fellows remain committed to serving the children of Edo State with integrity, passion, and professionalism. They call on the public and government officials to show them the fairness and respect they deserve, allowing them to continue their vital work without being embroiled in unnecessary political controversies.
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