Ogun School Principal Suspended As Student Dies While Serving Punishment

Governor Dapo Abiodun‘s government of Ogun State has closed Obada Grammar School located in Obada, Idi-Emi, following the tragic death of a Senior Secondary II student, Monday Arijo.

The school’s principal, Mrs. Tamrat Onaolapo, who had previously received a query for permitting corporal punishment in violation of state regulations, has also been suspended.

Naija News understands that this action was taken after the arrest and suspension of the teacher believed to be responsible for the student’s death due to corporal punishment, which occurred last Friday.

The latest action by the government was confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday by Lekan Adeniran, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Abiodun.

The statement reads: “The closure of the school was based on the directive of the state governor, Dapo Abiodun, who has also directed that a panel should be set up to investigate the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident.

“The governor has promised that those liable by the outcome of the investigation will be made to face the full wrath of the law”.

Representatives from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology were reported to have visited the family of the deceased student.

The purpose of the visit was to extend condolences and convey the Ministry’s deep sorrow regarding their loss while also gathering firsthand information about the incident to facilitate a comprehensive investigation.

The government delegation comprised the Director of the Secondary and Higher Education Department, the Principals General from the Egba and Yewa Divisions, the Zonal Education Officer from Imeko Afon, as well as representatives from ANCOPPS, the Ogun State President of the Trade Union Congress, and the Ogun State Chairman of ASSUS.

During the visit, the Principal General from the Egba and Yewa Divisions, along with the Director of Education for Secondary and Higher Education, expressed their sincere condolences and commitment to providing support from the state government to the family during this difficult period.

The officials assured the family that a detailed investigation would be initiated to uncover the facts surrounding the incident and that accountability would be sought.

They reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring the safety of students, fostering a more supportive educational environment, and delivering justice for the grieving family following the untimely death of their son.

The Divisional Police Officer of Idi-Emi assured the family that the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident would be thoroughly examined, and justice would be pursued.

He also guaranteed the safety of their children within the school.

A condolence letter expressing sympathy for the family’s loss, along with a cash gift of ₦500,000, was presented to a representative of the deceased family.

The family received the officials and conveyed their profound grief and shock at the unexpected loss of their child.