ABEOKUTA – The Ogun State Government has taken immediate action, suspending the principals of Ilugun High School in Elega, Abeokuta, after a student died during a protest on Tuesday.
The state’s Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, announced the suspension of both the Junior and Senior School principals at an emergency press briefing.
Preliminary investigations reveal that the protest was sparked by the Junior School Principal, Mrs. Alaba Olukoga, who was allegedly involved in the illegal collection of fees from students.
According to the Commissioner, while security operatives were called in to disperse the protesting students, one student attempted to flee by jumping over the school fence into a nearby river, where he tragically drowned.
Professor Arigbabu clarified that while the Senior School Principal, Mrs. Temitope Ladipo, was not directly implicated, her suspension was necessary to ensure a fair and transparent investigation.
The government has sent its condolences to the bereaved family, describing the loss as “painful and irreparable,” and has promised that anyone found culpable will face the full wrath of the law.
Students have been urged to remain calm and avoid vandalism, as the government reaffirms its commitment to free education. The findings of the full investigation are expected to be made public.
