Lagos Government Closes School Over Toddler’s Death & Launches Investigation

Lagos State Investigates Toddler’s Death, Shuts Down School

The Lagos State Government has ordered the closure of Smiley Kids Montessori School, located in Heritage Place Estate, Sangotedo, following the tragic death of a two-year-old pupil, Rapheala Ogbodo.

Incident Details:

• The incident occurred on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, when Rapheala reportedly died during a swimming session at the school’s pool.
• Initial reports from the school suggested that the toddler drowned. However, Rapheala’s mother, Ms. Ella Ogbodo, has alleged that her daughter was electrocuted and that the school attempted to cover up the incident by placing her body in the pool.

Government Actions:

• Officials from the Lagos State Safety Commission and the Office of Education Quality Assurance, under the Ministry of Education, have visited the school to conduct a preliminary investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
• The school has been sealed off to allow for a thorough investigation and to identify potential lapses that led to the unfortunate death.

Official Statements:

• The Director-General of the Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, emphasized the importance of schools adhering to safety regulations to prevent such tragedies. He stated that further information would be made available upon the completion of investigations.

Ongoing Investigation:

• The Lagos State Government has expressed its deepest condolences to the family of the victim and has assured the public of its commitment to uncovering the truth behind the incident. The government has also appealed to school owners and caregivers to comply with safety regulations to prevent accidents in schools and the entire state.