In a disturbing incident in Akure, Ondo State, the Vice Principal of Complete Child Development College, Aule, Mr. Rotifa, was reportedly assaulted by suspected thugs allegedly hired by the parent of a student he had earlier disciplined for attempting to cheat during the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), organized by WAEC.
According to a preliminary investigation report by the Director of Schools, Ondo State Ministry of Education, the incident began on May 26 when an SS3 student was caught with an android phone during an examination, which violates the school’s rules and WAEC’s examination guidelines. Mr. Rotifa, in line with standard examination conduct, confiscated the phone.
The situation escalated when the student’s mother stormed the school premises to confront the management over the seized phone. The altercation became so intense that the school proprietor instructed that the phone be returned to her to deescalate tensions.
Shortly after, the student’s elder brother, who is reportedly a former student of the same school, arrived at the school and issued threats against the Vice Principal, warning him of repercussions.
Later that day, after school hours, the suspected thugs were seen loitering around the school premises. Upon being informed, the proprietor advised Mr. Rotifa to report the threat to the police. Mr. Rotifa proceeded to the police station, and two officers accompanied him in a patrol van to locate the individuals for possible arrest.
However, on their return trip, the suspects allegedly ambushed the police vehicle, forcibly removed Mr. Rotifa, and physically assaulted him. He sustained injuries and was subsequently taken to a hospital for medical treatment.
The school’s principal confirmed that although Mr. Rotifa has been discharged from the hospital, he has not returned to his home due to fears for his safety, fearing that the assailants may return to harm him.
The Ondo State Ministry of Education stated that investigations are ongoing to apprehend the culprits. In the meantime, security arrangements are being made to ensure the safety of staff and students throughout the remaining period of the WASSCE.
