The Kaduna Police Command has reported the detention of the Principal and Vice Principal of Al-Azhar School in Zaria, Kaduna State.
They were detained on Friday due to their suspected involvement in the physical punishment that resulted in the tragic death of Marwanu Nuhu Sambo, a JSS3 pupil.
Sambo had allegedly suffered severe physical assault from the school’s Principal, Vice Principal, and prefects after being absent from school.
According to reports by the Tribune, when questioned about the status of the individuals responsible, PPRO ASP Mansir Hassan of the Police Command stated, “Police are fully aware of the incident, and the situation is under control.”
Adding that, “Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, and that the Commissioner of Police has ordered a comprehensive investigation to uncover the root causes of the tragedy.”
Reportedly, Sambo was subjected to punishment at a school assembly for his absence, receiving over 150 cane strokes. He was then taken to the office, where he was subjected to further physical abuse with sticks on his head, back, and body.
“The Principal later handed him over to the school prefects, who continued beating him with sticks until one of his teeth fell off. It was at that point that the deceased went into a coma,” a source revealed. Unfortunately, rather than seeking immediate medical help, Sambo was left near the school toilets until the end of the day.
Other students’ distress at the situation drew the attention of teachers, who discovered that the student had tragically passed away. He was later taken to a private hospital in Zaria, where he was pronounced dead.
The school administration has distanced itself from the unauthorized punishment, stating that it was not part of the school’s policy and that the officials involved acted without proper consultation.
In response to the incident, the school expressed deep sorrow for the loss of its student and extended prayers for the departed. It also suspended the officers involved and handed them over to the Nigerian Police Force for investigation.
Furthermore, the school has temporarily suspended academic activities until further notice.
