- Safiu Kehinde
The Federal Government has condemned the assault on one Mr. Rotifa, the Vice Principal of Complete Child Development College, Aule, Akure, Ondo State, over the seizure of a student’s phone.
NPO Reports gathered that Mr Rotifa was last week assaulted by thugs sent by the mother of an SS3 student he caught cheating during the ongoing West African Examinations Council Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The student, whose identity was not disclosed was allegedly caught using an Android phone to cheat, leading to the Vice Principal’s confiscation of the phone.
Mr. Rotifa would however be subjected to threat by the student’s mother, identified as Mrs. Dorcas Asije, who stormed the school on Thursday.
While the student’s phone was returned, his brother reportedly carried out the assault alongside the hired thugs who overpowered the policemen invited to protect the Vice Principal.
According to report, Mr
Rotifa was dragged out of the police vehicle and beaten to the point of unconsciousness.
Reacting to the development in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Federal Ministry of Education’s
Director, Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the ministry condemned the attack.
It commended Ondo state government and the state’s police command for apprehending the culprits behind the assault.
The ministry demanded thorough investigation into the case and ensure prosecution of the suspects.
“We commend the swift response of Executive Governor of Ondo State His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and the State Police Command in arresting the suspects, including Mrs. Dorcas Asije and four accomplices.
“We urge that thorough investigations be concluded and all culprits duly prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.” The statement partly read.
The Ministry further reiterated its zero-tolerance for examination malpractice and intimidation of school staff.
According to the statement, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, urged all schools to promptly report any threats or breaches of conduct during examinations to law enforcement agencies and relevant educational authorities.
The Ministry expressed its solidarity with the management and staff of Complete Child Development College, stressing that it is working in collaboration with the state education ministry and Police Force to ensure security across all schools.
“The Ministry, under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, reiterates its zero tolerance for examination malpractice, intimidation of school staff, and any form of unethical conduct from students, parents, or guardians.
“Any student found engaging in examination malpractice will face sanctions in line with national examination guidelines. Furthermore, any parent or guardian who enables, supports, or participates in such criminal behaviour will be prosecuted under the law.
“The Honourable Minister stated that all schools are encouraged to promptly report any threats or breaches of conduct during examinations to law enforcement agencies and relevant educational authorities.
“We are working in collaboration with state ministries of education, law enforcement agencies, and examination bodies to enhance the security and integrity of our examination processes.
“The Federal Ministry of Education stands firmly with the management and staff of Complete Child Development College, and by extension, all education stakeholders nationwide who continue to uphold the values of discipline, accountability, academic excellence, and who resist examination malpractice.” The statement read further.