The Ogun State Government has suspended Amzadjo Elijah, a teacher at Obada Grammar School, following the tragic death of student Monday Arijo, who reportedly died from complications arising from severe punishment he received.
This suspension was announced in a statement posted on the state government’s X page on Sunday. It was reported that Arijo passed away after spending ten days in the hospital, having collapsed while being made to perform 162 frog jumps and receiving 24 strokes of the cane.
The principal of the school allegedly ordered the punishment in response to Arijo’s remarks about the school purchasing a dustbin with funds contributed by students. The statement also revealed that the principal, Mrs. Tamrat Onaolapo, has been formally questioned regarding her role in the incident.
The statement read: “The Ogun State Government, through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, has suspended a teacher accused of beating and punishing Master Monday Arijo, a Senior Secondary 2 student of Obada Grammar School, which reportedly led to his untimely death.
“The incident occurred on Friday and has resulted in the immediate arrest of the teacher, while the principal has been queried for permitting corporal punishment, contrary to state regulations. She has been given 24 hours to provide an explanation for her actions and to justify why disciplinary measures should not be taken against her.”
The government expressed condolences to the family of the deceased student, acknowledging him as an outstanding learner.
“A letter of condolence has been sent to the grieving family, expressing sympathy over the sudden loss of their beloved son and assuring them that justice will be pursued. The letter, signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, highlighted the exceptional qualities of the late student, who will be dearly missed by his peers, the school community, and the state. It concluded with prayers for strength for the family to endure this profound loss and for the soul of the departed to find peace.”
