The Lagos State Government has shut down Smiley Kids Montessori, a school in Sangotedo, following the death of a two-year-old pupil, Ela Ogbodu.
Ela’s mother, Rapheala Ogbodu, took to social media on January 15 to demand answers regarding her daughter's tragic death. She revealed that her daughter, who left home healthy for school, was reported to have drowned in the school's swimming pool. However, Rapheala alleged that her child was electrocuted and that the school attempted to cover up the incident by placing her body in 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 cause of the tragedy.
A statement from the Safety Commission confirmed that the school has been sealed off pending further investigation. “The State Government extends its deepest condolences to the family of the victim and reiterates its commitment to preventing such incidents in the future,” the statement read.
The Director-General of the Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola, emphasized that school owners and caregivers must adhere to safety regulations to prevent accidents. He added that more details would be provided once the investigation is concluded.