Vice Principal Beaten by Suspected Thugs After Seizing Student’s Phone During WASSCE in Akure

A troubling incident unfolded at Complete Child Development College in Aule, Akure, Ondo State, where suspected thugs reportedly attacked the school’s Vice Principal, Mr. Rotifa, after he prevented a student from cheating during the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

According to a preliminary report from the Ondo State Ministry of Education, the attack was allegedly sparked by the anger of a parent whose child was caught with an android phone during an exam.

The ministry’s report, signed by the Director of Schools, states that the incident began on May 26, when Mr. Rotifa confiscated the device from an SS3 student in line with exam regulations. Days later, the student’s mother stormed the school to confront the management, insisting on the return of the phone. The school proprietor, in an attempt to defuse the situation, ordered the phone be returned.

However, the matter escalated when the student’s brother—a former student—returned to the school to threaten Mr. Rotifa. According to the report, the Vice Principal was advised to report the matter to the police.

Two officers accompanied him in a patrol van in search of the suspects. However, on their return from an unsuccessful search, the group of boys allegedly ambushed the police vehicle, dragged Mr. Rotifa out, and beat him.

He was later taken to the hospital for treatment. Though he has since been discharged, the school’s principal confirmed that he has not returned home due to fears for his safety.

The Ondo State Ministry of Education says investigations are ongoing, and steps are being taken to ensure the safety of students and staff for the remainder of the WASSCE period.

Attempts to reach the school principal for further comment were unsuccessful as of the time of this report.