October 11, 2021

Kwara State Government said it was probing the flogging of students of an Arabic school in Kwara State after its delegation visited the school.

The students were accused of drinking alcohol at a birthday party,

The government also directed the suspension of the school head, who has admitted to authorising the punishment.

The affected students have been taken to a public hospital, the government said.

A statement signed by the State Commissioner for Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, said:

“The government’s team carefully listened to the authorities of the Arabic school, the father of the sole girl in the video, and four other students involved in the unsavoury development.

“Regardless of the explanations of the authorities on the development, the self-confessed consent of the parents and regret of the affected students, the government seriously frowns at the harsh beating seen in the footage.

“Consequently, the government has directed the setting up of an investigative committee, comprising Muslim scholars, leaders and government officials, to look into the issue while the head of the Arabic school, who admitted to directing the punishment, has been asked to step aside pending the conclusion of the investigation.

“The government has also taken the affected students to a public hospital for proper medical examination and treatment. This is to ensure that none of them suffers any physical or psychological damage.

“The government appeals for calm while the committee does it works and submits a report for further action.

“The government commends the Ganmo Muslim community for the support given to the team.”