Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
The secondary school teacher, Mr. Amzadjo Elijah, who allegedly beat a Senior Secondary School 2 (SS2) student, Master Monday Ariyo, to death in Ogun, has been arrested.
The tragic incident occurred at Obada Grammar School, Idi-Emi.
Elijah, who had already been suspended prior to his arrest, reportedly administered 24 strokes of the cane to Ariyo before instructing him to perform 162 frog jumps as part of a punishment.
The student, unable to endure the severe physical ordeal, collapsed on the school premises. He was immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Abeokuta, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology confirmed the teacher’s arrest in a statement at the weekend. The ministry condemned the excessive punishment, which it said violated the state’s guidelines for corporal punishment in schools.
In addition to Elijah’s arrest, the ministry has issued a formal query to the principal of Obada Grammar School, Mrs. Tamrat Onaolapo, for her role in the incident.
The ministry demanded that the principal provide an explanation within 24 hours as to why she allowed such severe disciplinary measures, which go against the established rules and regulations of the state.
Mrs. Onaolapo was warned that disciplinary action would follow if her explanation proved unsatisfactory.
“The principal was given 24 hours to explain her actions and why disciplinary actions should not be taken against her for acting against the instructions of constituted authority,” the ministry’s statement read.
The ministry extended its condolences to the family of the late student, describing him as an “exceptional pupil” who will be deeply missed by his classmates, teachers, and the state at large.
This incident has sparked public outrage, with calls for stronger oversight and enforcement of disciplinary measures in schools to prevent further tragedies.