Lagos Police Arrest School Principal and Teacher for Alleged Assault on 15-Year-Old Student

The Lagos State Police Command has detained the principal and a teacher of Okota Junior Grammar School after they were accused of assaulting a 15-year-old student, which allegedly resulted in the loss of three of his teeth.

The two suspects, identified as Kayode Abolarin, the school’s principal, and Atueyin Martins, a teacher at the institution, were taken into police custody following a formal complaint lodged by the victim’s mother. The report was made at the Isolo Police Division around 11 a.m. on March 11, 2025, prompting an immediate investigation.

Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, confirmed the arrests and assured the public that a thorough investigation into the matter was underway. According to Hundeyin, the incident occurred within the school premises, and the authorities are currently gathering all relevant information to piece together the circumstances surrounding the assault.

“The police acted swiftly upon receiving the complaint from the victim’s mother, leading to the immediate arrest of the two suspects. Both the principal and the teacher are cooperating with the authorities as investigations continue,” Hundeyin stated. He further emphasized that the case would be treated with the seriousness it deserves and that justice would be pursued for the victim.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Hundeyin reassured residents that the Lagos State Police Command was committed to ensuring that justice would be served. He explained that the suspects would be arraigned in court once the investigation is complete.

“The Lagos State Police Command is committed to upholding the law and ensuring that those responsible for criminal activities are held accountable. We will continue to handle this case with the diligence it requires and see that justice prevails,” Hundeyin affirmed.

The incident has sparked widespread concern among Lagosians, with many expressing their shock and outrage at the alleged assault on a student within the safe confines of a school environment. The victim, whose identity has been withheld, reportedly suffered serious injuries as a result of the attack, including the loss of several teeth. This has drawn attention to the broader issue of student safety in schools and the responsibilities of school authorities to protect their students from harm.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, also weighed in on the matter, reiterating the command's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents, particularly vulnerable individuals such as students. He assured the public that the police would take immediate and appropriate action to address any form of criminal activity and bring offenders to justice.

“The safety and security of our residents remain a top priority for the Lagos State Police Command. We will continue to address any issues related to criminal activities with the urgency and professionalism that they demand. This case is no exception, and we will ensure that justice is served promptly,” CP Jimoh said.

As the investigation continues, the authorities are expected to gather further evidence, including eyewitness testimonies, to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the assault. The police have vowed to take all necessary actions to ensure that the responsible parties face the full weight of the law.

The arrest of the school principal and teacher has raised questions about the level of discipline and accountability within educational institutions in Lagos State. As the investigation progresses, it is likely to lead to further discussions on the need for greater vigilance and safeguards to prevent violence in schools and ensure the safety of students.