The Ogun State Government has closed Obada Grammar School in Obada, Idi-Emi, following the tragic death of an SS2 student, Monday Arijo, who reportedly lost his life due to corporal punishment inflicted by a teacher.
This decision follows the suspension and arrest of the teacher involved in the incident, as well as disciplinary action against the school principal, Tamrat Onaolapo, who received a formal query for allowing the use of corporal punishment, which violates state regulations.
Lekan Adeniran, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Dapo Abiodun, released a statement on Tuesday detailing the governor’s directive. The statement explained that the school’s closure and the immediate suspension of both the teacher and the principal are part of ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and a proper investigation into the circumstances surrounding the student’s death. Governor Abiodun has also ordered the formation of a panel to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, with assurances that any individuals found responsible will face legal consequences.
The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology representatives visited the student’s family to express condolences and share their grief. During the visit, officials gathered initial accounts of the incident to support the investigation. The government delegation included several key educational representatives, such as the Director of Secondary and Higher Education, the Principals General from the Egba and Yewa Divisions, the Zonal Education Officer of Imeko Afon, as well as representatives from ANCOPPS, the Ogun State President of the Trade Union Congress, and the Ogun State Chairman of ASSUS.
While addressing the grieving family, the officials expressed their deep sympathy and affirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting them through this difficult time. They promised a detailed inquiry to establish the facts surrounding the event and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Emphasizing the government’s dedication to student safety and a nurturing school environment, they assured the family that justice would be pursued in the wake of the tragic incident.
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Idi-Emi Police Division also met with the family, reassuring them that the investigation would be comprehensive and that the responsible parties would be brought to justice. The DPO further emphasised measures to safeguard other students’ safety and well-being within the school community.
As a gesture of sympathy and support, a condolence letter along with a cash gift of N500,000 was presented to the family. In receiving the government delegation, the family conveyed their sorrow and shock over the untimely loss of their child, while the officials reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that accountability and justice are upheld in this matter.
