AKURE — In a shocking twist that exposes the rot threatening Nigeria’s education system, a vice principal at Complete Child Development College, Aule in Akure, Ondo State, was brutally attacked by suspected thugs allegedly hired by a student’s parent — all because he dared to uphold exam integrity during the ongoing WAEC exams.
The targeted staff, identified as Mr. Rotifa, reportedly confiscated an Android phone from an SS3 student caught attempting to cheat during the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) on May 26. The move, though in line with WAEC and school regulations, sparked a chain of retaliatory violence that now has the entire school community on edge.
According to a preliminary report by the Ondo State Ministry of Education, the situation escalated two days later, when the student’s mother stormed the school premises in rage, openly confronting the management and demanding the return of the seized phone. In a bid to defuse tensions, the school proprietor caved — and returned the device.
But the story didn’t end there.
“The student’s older brother, a former student of the school, later came back to threaten the Vice Principal, vowing to deal with him,” the report reads.
As threats mounted, the school proprietor reportedly advised Mr. Rotifa to lodge a complaint with the police — a decision that would almost cost him his life. While returning from the fruitless search for the suspects with two police officers, the Vice Principal was ambushed.
“The boys waylaid the police van, dragged Mr. Rotifa out and beat him mercilessly,” the report stated. “He was rushed to the hospital for urgent treatment.”
Though discharged, Mr. Rotifa is reportedly too afraid to return home, fearing another attack. Authorities say investigation is still ongoing, and efforts are being made to locate and arrest those responsible. Meanwhile, arrangements have been set in motion to ensure the safety of staff and students as the WASSCE continues.
Attempts to get an official response from the school principal were unsuccessful, as school authorities have refused to comment on the incident publicly.
This brazen act of violence against an educator — for simply doing his job — sends a chilling message: in parts of Nigeria, it is now dangerous to enforce discipline. As the WAEC exams progress, this incident raises serious questions about the state’s commitment to protecting teachers and upholding the sanctity of education.
More updates to follow as investigations unfold.
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