In a landmark judgment that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s education sector, an Abuja High Court has ordered a prominent private school in the Federal Capital Territory to pay N100 million in damages following the death of a student under their care.
The court delivered its judgment yesterday after months of hearings in a case that has attracted widespread attention across the country. Justice Bello Ibrahim, who presided over the matter, ruled that the school demonstrated “gross negligence and dereliction of duty” in events leading to the student’s death.
“The court finds that the defendant failed in its fundamental duty of care owed to the deceased student,” Justice Ibrahim stated in his ruling. “Educational institutions are entrusted with our most precious assets – our children – and must be held to the highest standards of accountability.”
The deceased student, 14-year-old Chidera Okafor, reportedly died following a medical emergency at the school premises in September last year. According to court documents, the school’s administration delayed seeking medical attention despite clear signs of distress, choosing instead to administer first aid treatment by untrained personnel.
The legal counsel for the bereaved family, Barrister Funmi Adegoke, described the judgment as “a watershed moment for accountability in Nigerian schools.”
“While no amount of money can compensate for the loss of a child, this judgment sends a powerful message that schools must prioritize student safety above all else,” Adegoke told journalists outside the courtroom. “The family has endured unimaginable pain, but they pursued this case to ensure no other family suffers a similar tragedy.”
Representatives of the school appeared visibly shaken after the verdict was announced. Their lead counsel, Mr. Timothy Obaseki, indicated they would review the judgment before deciding on next steps. “We respect the court’s decision but need time to consult with our clients regarding the possibility of an appeal,” he said.
Parents and education advocates have welcomed the ruling as a necessary wake-up call for educational institutions across the country. Mrs. Folashade Durojaiye, chairperson of the National Parents-Teachers Association Forum, remarked, “This judgment should put all schools on notice that the safety and wellbeing of students cannot be compromised.”
The Ministry of Education has responded to the ruling by announcing plans to review emergency response protocols in all schools within the Federal Capital Territory. “This tragic incident highlights the need for stringent safety measures and proper training of school personnel in handling medical emergencies,” a ministry spokesperson said.
As news of the judgment spreads, educational institutions across Nigeria are reportedly reassessing their safety protocols and emergency response procedures to avoid similar incidents and potential liability.
The court also ordered the school to issue a formal apology to the bereaved family and to establish a scholarship fund in memory of the deceased student, ensuring that lessons from this tragedy translate into meaningful change in school safety standards.
