The Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQAA) has ordered the shut down of Al-Azhar Academy, Zaria, where a student was allegedly flogged to death pending the conclusion of investigation into the incident.
The student, Marwan Nuhu Sambo, was reportedly punished for absenteeism.
This is contained in a statement signed by Dr Usman Abubakar Zaria, Director-General KSSQAA, on behalf of the commissioner of education
It said “Attention of the Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQAA) was drown to the unfortunate incident that occurred at Al-Azhar Academy, Kofar Gayan, Turunku Road, Zaria,Kaduna State.
“According to the school, the sad incident involved punishment actions for absenteeism meted to a JSS ||| (basic 9) student, named Marwan Nuhu Sambo which led to the death of the student on Friday, 20th October, 2023.
“The KSSQAA, Ministry of Education, representing the Kaduna State Government, was earlier today on a fact-finding mission visit, seeking to piece together the sequence of events that transpired: from the Al-Azhar Academy, the school where the incident happened, to home of the victim to offer condolences and engage with bereaved family as well as some school mates of the victim.
“KSSQAA then visited the Divisional Police Headquarters, Zaria City, where the school principal and the vice- principal were detained.
“The fact-finding team then moved to Hajiya Gambo Sawaba General Hospital, Zaria, where the victim was formally confirmed dead.
“Finally, KSSQAA visited the graveyard where the victim was said to have been put to rest yesterday, and a fresh-looking grave was observed.
“The State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani , wishes to assure the general public of its firm resolve to ensure conducive learning environment, equity and justice.
“Against this backdrop, members of the general public are urged to remain calm and law abiding while the investigation is carried out for justice to be served accordingly.
“In the interim, guided by the provisions of its establishment Act (amended 2015), the Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority has closed down Al-Azhar Academy, Zaria and the school premises remains sealed – pending the outcomes of the investigation.”
