Ondo Vice Principal Brutally Attacked After Preventing Exam Malpractice During WASSCE

 

Ondo Vice Principal Assaulted by Thugs After Preventing Student from Cheating During WASSCE

A disturbing incident has emerged from Akure, the capital of Ondo State, where a Vice Principal of Complete Child Development College, Aule, identified as Mr. Rotifa, was viciously attacked by suspected thugs allegedly hired by a student’s parent. The brutal assault occurred after Mr. Rotifa stopped the student from cheating during the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

According to eyewitness accounts, the Vice Principal confiscated an Android phone from the student, who had attempted to use it to cheat during the exam. This action reportedly angered the student’s mother, who issued threats against the school and its staff. She warned that no one should stop her child from using a phone in future exams, particularly in the upcoming mathematics paper.

Despite the threats, Mr. Rotifa stood his ground, reiterating that no student would be allowed to bring unauthorized items, including mobile phones, into the examination hall. This firm stance, however, allegedly led to a more sinister escalation.

On May 26, the mother of the student visited the school to confront the management over the phone seizure. The situation became so tense that the school’s proprietor was forced to order that the confiscated phone be returned to her, hoping to de-escalate the matter.

The issue took a darker turn when the student’s brother, reportedly a former student of the school, visited the campus to intimidate Mr. Rotifa and made open threats against him. Concerned for his safety, the school authorities advised the Vice Principal to report the matter to the police.

Mr. Rotifa visited the police station, and two officers accompanied him in a patrol van in an attempt to locate the suspects. However, as they were returning to the station after an unsuccessful search, the assailants ambushed the police van. The thugs forcibly removed Mr. Rotifa from the vehicle and beat him severely in public.

The injured educator was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he received treatment for multiple injuries. He was discharged the following day but has since avoided returning home, fearing further attacks or being followed by the assailants.

Government Reacts

In response to the shocking incident, the Ondo State Ministry of Education, through its Director of Schools, issued an official statement condemning the attack. The ministry detailed the sequence of events and reassured the public that action would be taken against those responsible.

“The unfortunate incident began when a mobile phone was found with an SS3 student, which goes against school policy. Mr. Rotifa, in accordance with the rules, confiscated the phone,” the statement read. “The student’s mother later came to the school and created a scene, leading the school proprietor to return the phone to avoid further confrontation.”

The ministry further explained that the student’s brother, a former pupil of the school, returned later and issued threats to the Vice Principal. Police were informed, and while Mr. Rotifa and two officers were attempting to find the suspects, the attack occurred.

“The thugs blocked the police van, dragged Mr. Rotifa out, and subjected him to a severe beating,” the ministry confirmed. “Although he has been discharged from the hospital, he is currently in hiding due to safety concerns.”

The Ministry of Education emphasized that investigations are underway and that every effort is being made to apprehend those involved. “Measures are now being put in place to ensure the safety of all students and staff for the duration of the WASSCE exams,” the statement concluded.

Public Outcry and Concern

This incident has sparked outrage among education stakeholders, parents, and civil society groups. Many have expressed concern over the increasing trend of violence against educators and the growing disregard for academic integrity and discipline.

Calls are being made for justice to be served swiftly and for the state government to implement stricter security measures in schools. There is also renewed advocacy for legislation that will protect teachers from threats and physical attacks, particularly during national examinations.

As the WASSCE examinations continue across the country, this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector—from exam malpractice to the safety of school staff and students.