School Pupils in Ogun State Beat Teacher for Stopping Cheating During Exam
In a distressing incident that occurred at Isanbi Comprehensive High School, Ilisan-Remo, Ogun State, a gang of senior secondary school pupils reportedly assaulted their teacher, Mr. Kolawole Shonuga. The altercation took place during a unified examination for the SS 1 Art class students, when Shonuga caught one of the pupils cheating and subsequently confiscated their paper.The incident, which transpired on Tuesday, escalated after school hours. The students, dissatisfied with the teacher’s actions, confronted Mr. Shonuga at the school’s gate and subjected him to physical assault. The situation became so serious that local authorities had to intervene.The Remo Division of the police force responded to the distress call, apprehending approximately ten of the involved students. The state Police Public Relations Officer, Omotola Odutola, confirmed the occurrence and the subsequent arrests. Shonuga filed a formal complaint at the Remo Police Division, leading to the detention of the suspects.As news of the assault spread, the state Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools, Felix Agbesanwa, expressed his disapproval and emphasized that the students must face the full consequences of their actions. He stressed that such behavior must not go unpunished and that raising a hand against a teacher is unacceptable, regardless of the circumstances.In the wake of the incident, the state government also condemned the act, emphasizing its stance against any form of indiscipline by learners across the state. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Science, and Technology, Prof Abayomi Arigbabu, issued a stern warning during a meeting in Abeokuta, stating that disciplinary measures would be taken against students who misbehave in schools.This unfortunate event is not an isolated incident in Ogun State. In October 2021, the state witnessed multiple cases of assaults on teachers in various public schools, prompting the government to implement measures to address hooliganism. In response, the authorities introduced a compulsory undertaking that required all students and their parents to sign, pledging to curb such unruly behavior.As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, it remains imperative for educators, parents, and authorities to work collectively in instilling discipline and respect in students, ensuring the safety and well-being of both teachers and learners within the educational system.