Student, 11, Dies Amidst Allegations of Bullying at Federal Government College, Ikot Ekpene

An 11-year-old student at Federal Government College Ikot Ekpene, located in Akwa Ibom State, identified as UfokObong Godwin, has died under circumstances that are currently under investigation by both his family and the school administration.

The boy's passing, which reportedly occurred on April 5, has attracted significant public attention, with social media reports suggesting a senior student assaulted him. One account indicated that the victim was struck on the neck after refusing to yield his provisions to a senior student, leading to him being taken to a medical facility.

Online claims also stated that school officials did not inform the boy's parents about the incident and allowed him to return home without disclosing the details. Reports suggest the student initially complained of neck pain on April 1 and received medication, but later died in the early hours of April 5 from complications involving blood clots around his throat.

However, school officials have presented a different narrative. Hassan Adamu, the Vice Principal (Administration), declined to comment, deferring to higher authorities. The Principal, Ezeogu Jude, stated that the matter is being investigated. He mentioned that the student was attended to at the college clinic, returned to the hostel, and continued with his academic activities. He confirmed receiving information about an alleged assault by a senior student but noted the boy appeared to recover and went home. A formal statement is expected after a meeting with the School-Based Management Committee on April 9.

Teachers who spoke anonymously to PREMIUM TIMES clarified that the incident at the school clinic occurred on March 14, involving a complaint of being hit in the stomach by another student. They confirmed he was examined, found to be stable, and completed his school examinations before leaving for the break on March 17, with no reported complications at that time. The teachers expressed surprise at the subsequent health issues arising two weeks later.

Regarding the family's perspective, the boy’s father, Edwin Godwin, directed inquiries to a family spokesperson, Didi Francis. Ms. Francis urged the public to avoid unverified reports, stating that much of the online information is distorted and was published without the family's consent. She assured that ongoing investigations would reveal the facts and prevent future occurrences, emphasizing the need for patience. The family also called for comprehensive measures to combat bullying and pledged to pursue justice.

This incident follows a similar event in Edo State, where a student was expelled after a viral video depicted seniors bullying a junior. The Edo State Government subsequently ordered the arrest and prosecution of the students involved.