Ogun State Closes School, Suspends Principal Following Student’s Tragic Death

The Ogun State Government has ordered the closure of Obada Grammar School in Obada, Idi-Emi, following the death of Monday Arijo, an SS2 student, allegedly as a result of corporal punishment. The teacher accused of administering the punishment has been arrested and suspended, while the school’s principal, Mrs. Tamrat Onaolapo, has also been suspended for permitting corporal punishment, which is against the state’s regulations.

According to a statement from Mr. Lekan Adeniran, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Dapo Abiodun, the governor directed the school’s closure and called for an investigation into the 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,” the statement read.

Representatives from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology visited the student’s family to offer condolences and gather information. The delegation included officials from various educational departments, local associations, and the police. Speaking on behalf of the state, they expressed condolences, pledged government support for the grieving family, and assured them that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the facts.

The delegation also delivered a condolence letter and a cash gift of N500,000 to the family. Local law enforcement, represented by the Divisional Police Officer of Idi-Emi, assured the family that justice would be pursued and measures taken to ensure student safety in the school. The family, deeply affected, expressed their grief at the tragic loss of their son.