The Ogun State Government has sent a second delegation to commiserate with the family of Monday Arijo, a student who died after being subjected to corporal punishment by a teacher at Obada Grammar School, Idi-emi.
Led by Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, the delegation urged teachers to desist from administering corporal punishment on pupils and students.
Prof. Arigbabu emphasized that the state government has set up a committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding Arijo’s death, stressing that corporal punishment is against global standards and regulations.
He noted that teachers should discipline children without resorting to corporal punishment, which can lead to chaos.
The Commissioner assured parents that the state government will monitor and sanction teachers found culpable of administering corporal punishment.
Prof. Arigbabu also announced that the teacher and principal involved in the incident have been suspended.
The state government will support the family during and after the mourning period, ensuring such incidents do not repeat themselves.
A post-mortem is being conducted by the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) to determine the cause of Arijo’s death.
The family, represented by Mr. Abdullateef Oduntan, expressed their expectation that the government will prevent similar incidents in the future.
Special Adviser on Education to the Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Ronke Soyombo, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the family.
The Ogun State Government’s swift response aims to address concerns about corporal punishment in schools.
This incident highlights the need for alternative disciplinary methods and increased accountability in educational institutions.
By taking proactive measures, the state government seeks to ensure a safer and more conducive learning environment for students.
The outcome of the investigation and post-mortem will provide further clarity on the circumstances surrounding Arijo’s tragic death.