Lagos Govt Shuts School After 2-Year-Old Girl’s Tragic Death in Swimming Pool

The Lagos State government has shut down Smiley Kids Montessori in Sangotedo and launched an investigation into the death of two-year-old Rapheala Ogbodo, amid allegations of negligence and calls for stricter school safety measures.

The Lagos State government has shut down Smiley Kids Montessori in Sangotedo and launched an investigation following the tragic death of a two-year-old girl, Rapheala Ogbodo, who reportedly drowned in the school’s swimming pool on January 15.

Officials from the Lagos State Safety Commission and the Office of Education Quality Assurance visited the school to conduct a preliminary investigation, with further actions pending the outcome. The government expressed condolences to the bereaved family and emphasized the need for strict adherence to safety regulations by schools to prevent such incidents.

Controversy surrounds the cause of Rapheala’s death, as her mother alleged she was electrocuted and her body placed in the pool to suggest drowning. She pointed out the high barricade around the pool, questioning how a two-year-old could have climbed it. The mother has called for a thorough investigation into the incident.

This tragedy adds to the growing concerns over pupil safety in Lagos schools, following similar incidents, such as the death of a 10-year-old pupil in Ikorodu in 2023, who was struck by a rolling teacher’s car. The government continues to stress the importance of ensuring safety on school premises.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, LEGIT NG