The Lagos State Government has shut down Smiley School International in Sangotedo, Lagos Island, following the tragic death of a two-year-old girl, Rapheala Ogbodo, in a swimming pool incident on the school premises.
Rapheala’s mother took to social media to demand answers, alleging inconsistencies in the school’s account of events surrounding her daughter’s death. She shared her heartbreak on her X (formerly Twitter) handle, writing:
“Smiley School International, Sangotedo, Lagos Island, please bring her back. We cannot bear this alone. Please, if you have your child in that school, beware. They lied they were closed due to maintenance. I lost my Pinky Ella.”
Initial reports from the school claimed the toddler drowned in the swimming pool. However, the grieving mother alleged that her child was electrocuted, questioning how a two-year-old could bypass the high barricade around the pool.
In response to the incident, officials from the Lagos State Safety Commission, the Office of Education Quality Assurance, and the Ministry of Education conducted a preliminary investigation at the school to determine the circumstances of the tragic event.
A statement from the Safety Commission confirmed that the school is currently closed pending further investigation. The state government extended its condolences to the bereaved family and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future.
Director-General of the Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola, said, “Further information will be made available upon the completion of the investigation.” He emphasized the importance of strict adherence to safety regulations by school owners and caregivers, highlighting the state’s zero tolerance for negligence.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many parents and stakeholders calling for more stringent oversight of school safety protocols across Lagos State.
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