Kehinde Fajobi
The Ogun State Government has suspended Amzadjo Elijah, a teacher at Obada Grammar School, following the death of student Monday Arijo, allegedly from complications of a harsh punishment.
According to a statement on the government’s X page, Elijah is accused of enforcing a severe punishment on Arijo, an SS2 student, which may have led to his hospitalisation and subsequent death.
The student reportedly collapsed after being instructed to perform 162 frog jumps and was administered 24 strokes of the cane by the teacher.
The punishment was allegedly ordered by the school’s principal, Mrs. Tamrat Onaolapo, after Arijo commented that funds from students were used to purchase a school dustbin.
The government’s statement confirmed that the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology had suspended Elijah and issued a query to the principal, Mrs. Onaolapo, requiring her to explain her actions within 24 hours.
The statement further outlined that the principal faces potential disciplinary action for permitting corporal punishment, which contravenes state regulations.
“The Ogun State Government, through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, has suspended a teacher alleged to have beaten and punished one Master Monday Arijo…which reportedly led to his demise,” the statement read, adding that the principal had also been queried for disregarding established rules.
The statement conveyed the government’s condolences to Arijo’s family, describing him as “an exceptional pupil who would be missed by his colleagues, the school, and the state at large.”
The letter of condolence, signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, offered prayers for the family’s strength and justice for their loss.