SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT: Our Response to Dr. Paddy Iyamu’s Misrepresentation of EdoSTAR Fellows
Dear Edolites,
We write to address the repeated and unfair attacks on EdoSTAR Fellows by the Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu.
In recent interviews and public statements, the Commissioner has wrongfully labeled EdoSTAR Fellows as “unqualified teachers,” a claim that is not only inaccurate but also damaging to the hardworking men and women who dedicate themselves to educating our children.
The Commissioner, while appearing on Channels Television on 25th April 2025, cited an incident where a pupil’s notebook contained a wrongly spelled word that was allegedly marked as correct by an EdoSTAR Fellow. This narrative is misleading. The truth is that the Fellow in question was temporarily covering for a full-time teacher who was absent that day. The error had been made by the regular teacher the day before, yet the Commissioner’s public framing unfairly placed blame on the Fellow. This selective storytelling raises serious concerns about the motives behind such statements.
Let us be clear that EDOSTAR FELLOWS ARE QUALIFIED EDUCATORS . They are graduates from reputable institutions, many with degrees in Education or Postgraduate Diplomas in Education (PGDE) for those transitioning from other fields. They undergo rigorous training in modern teaching methods and are committed to improving learning outcomes across Edo State.
To judge an entire program and the hundreds of dedicated teachers within it by one misrepresented incident is not only unfair but irresponsible.
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. Our work should not be weaponized for political point-scoring. Teaching is already a challenging profession; adding public vilification to the mix only demoralizes those striving to make a difference in our classrooms.
We call on Dr. Paddy Iyamu to:
- Retract his unfounded claims about EdoSTAR Fellows.
- Engage with the program constructively to address any genuine concerns.
- Stop using educators as pawns in political disputes.
EdoSTAR Fellows remain committed to serving the children of Edo State with integrity and passion. We ask for fairness, respect, and the opportunity to continue contributing to the future of our state without being dragged into unnecessary controversies.
Signed: EDO Star Fellows
