The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to teachers in public schools, prohibiting any form of corporal punishment against students. This directive follows the tragic death of an SS2 student from Obada Grammar School in Imeko Afon Local Government Area, who reportedly died after being punished by a teacher.
Professor Abayomi Arigbagbu, the State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, emphasized the importance of investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. “The state government has set up a committee to look into the root causes of this tragedy. When such events occur, we must learn from them, not just for Obada Grammar School but for all schools in the state,” he stated.
Arigbabu reiterated that the government has consistently condemned corporal punishment in educational settings. “We have stakeholders’ meetings at the start of each session, where I emphasize the need to say no to corporal punishment. This is not just an Ogun State issue; it is a global standard. Regulations exist against corporal punishment, and we can instill discipline in children without resorting to it,” he explained.
The Commissioner assured parents that the government would monitor compliance and impose sanctions on any teachers found guilty of administering corporal punishment. “While we want to support teachers in their roles, they must adhere to established rules,” he added.
He also urged educators to maintain professionalism and maturity, highlighting alternative methods for disciplining students. “Trained teachers have various ways to instill discipline. Our stance is not to promote indiscipline in schools but to encourage methods that do not lead to chaos or harm,” Arigbabu noted.
In response to the incident, the state government has suspended the teacher and principal involved. “We assure parents that we are taking this seriously. The responsible teachers have faced disciplinary action, and we are committed to supporting the affected family during this difficult time,” he said.
Speaking for the family, Mr. Abdullateef Oduntan expressed that they are not seeking legal action against the state government. Instead, they hope the government will take measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Additionally, Mrs. Ronke Soyombo, Special Adviser on Education to the Ogun State Governor, affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the family and ensuring such incidents do not happen again.
A post-mortem examination is being conducted by the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) to determine the cause of the student’s death.
Discussion about this post