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Lagos school mourns 2-year-old’s death, vows justice, reforms

Smiley Kids Montessori School in Sangotedo, Lagos, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of two-year-old Raphaella Ogbodo, who passed away following an incident at the school’s swimming pool on January 15, 2025
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Smiley Kids Montessori School in Sangotedo, Lagos, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of two-year-old Raphaella Ogbodo, who passed away following an incident at the school’s swimming pool on January 15, 2025. In a statement on Tuesday, the school described the incident as unprecedented in its 17-year history, emphasizing its commitment to student safety.

“This heartbreaking incident has left us devastated. We extend our deepest condolences to the Ogbodo family, whose pain and grief we cannot begin to imagine,” the statement read. Acknowledging responsibility, the school pledged full cooperation with law enforcement and government authorities for a transparent investigation. “We have also launched a comprehensive internal review to identify areas for improvement in our safety procedures and strengthen our safeguards to prevent such incidents from recurring. The school will remain closed while investigations are ongoing.”

The school apologized for the disruption to students and their families, appealing for patience and privacy for the grieving family. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ogbodo family during this time of unimaginable loss.”

In response to the incident, the Lagos State government has deployed multiple agencies, including the Office of Education Quality Assurance, the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, and the Lagos State Safety Commission, to investigate. The mother of the deceased, who goes by @ElllaAbiaPrincess on X (formerly Twitter), has demanded justice, alleging the school falsely claimed her daughter drowned.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), through its Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Titilayo Adeniyi-Vivour, confirmed that the matter is being handled by the Ogombo Police Division and the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, for further investigation and possible prosecution. The DSVA also extended condolences to the bereaved family, vowing to uncover the truth and ensure justice is served.

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