- Grieving Mother Demands Answers Amid Allegations of Negligence and Cover-Up
- State Task Force Investigates Child’s Death at Smiley Kids Montessori, Sangotedo
The Lagos State Government has launched a comprehensive investigation into the tragic death of a two-year-old pupil, Rapheala Ogbodo, of Smiley Kids Montessori School in Sangotedo, Lagos Island. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, January 15, has sparked outrage and calls for accountability.
The heartbroken mother, identified as Ella on her X handle (@AbiaPrincess_X), revealed that her daughter left home healthy but returned lifeless. Initially informed that her child drowned in the school’s swimming pool, she now alleges foul play, suggesting the child may have been electrocuted before being placed in the pool to simulate an accidental drowning.
Ella shared an image of the pool, which is reportedly barricaded to prevent access by young children, questioning how a two-year-old could have scaled the obstacle. “Smiley School International, Sangotedo, please bring her back. We cannot bear this alone,” she wrote, calling on the Lagos State Government to investigate the matter.
In response, the Lagos State Safety Commission and the Office of Education Quality Assurance have shut down the school pending further investigation. The Permanent Secretary of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, Mrs. Titilayo Adeniyi-Vivour, assured the family of the government’s commitment to uncovering the truth and securing justice.
“The Lagos State Task Force on Safeguarding and Child Protection, comprising representatives from key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), is conducting a fact-finding mission at the school. We are also working closely with the Police at Ogombo and the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti,” she said.
The Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, emphasized the importance of adherence to safety standards by schools and caregivers to prevent similar tragedies. “This incident underscores the need for strict compliance with safety regulations. Further information will be provided after the investigation is concluded,” Mojola stated.
The Lagos State Government has expressed its condolences to the grieving family, reiterating its commitment to child safety. Meanwhile, Ella’s allegations of negligence and a possible cover-up have intensified calls for accountability and a thorough probe.
This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures in schools to protect the lives of young children.
