Mr. Yakubu Abisogun, a Deputy Director at the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, highlighted the lack of preparation by Chrisland Schools, Ikeja, during their Inter-house Sports event.
The tragic outcome of this unpreparedness resulted in the unfortunate passing of their student, Whitney Omodesola Adeniran. This revelation unfolded at the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja yesterday.
Background
Abisogun, a Level-16 Social Wellbeing Officer, asserted that the school’s failure to comply with the state’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy was evident in their lack of emergency preparedness, including the absence of a sufficient number of medical personnel and ambulance services.
The Lagos State Government had on March 31, 2023, filed charges against Chrisland Schools, its principal, vice principal, and two others in connection with the death of Whitney Adediran, who was allegedly electrocuted during the school’s inter-house sports competition on February 9, 2023, at the Agege Stadium, Lagos State.
The incident drew attention to the school’s alleged negligence and violation of safety protocols, highlighting broader concerns about child protection and emergency preparedness in educational institutions.
The tragic event prompted an investigation by the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, revealing systemic failures in adherence to safeguarding policies and protocols.
Court’s Decision
The witness, Mr. Yakubu Abisogun, testified to the school’s non-compliance with safety regulations, emphasizing the absence of key personnel and emergency resources required by the state’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy
The court, presided over by Justice Oyindamola Ogala, adjourned the case until March 13 for the continuation of the trial, signaling the need for thorough legal scrutiny.