In response to the deaths of two students at the Government Boarding Secondary School, Bichi, the Kano State government has launched a thorough investigation.
Hamza Idris-Tofawa and Umar Yusuf-Dungurawa reportedly died following an attack by peers, who allegedly used local metal objects referred to as “Gwale-Gwale” as a form of punishment.
The state Commissioner for Education, Ali Makoda, has called for an immediate and transparent inquiry into the incident. Through the ministry’s permanent secretary, Bashir Baffa, Mr Makoda assured that justice would be sought.
“This is a tragic and unfortunate event. The Kano State government is committed to a comprehensive and fair investigation to reveal the truth and ensure justice for all parties involved,” he remarked.
Initial reports indicate that the deceased were punished by senior students for supposedly committing an offence, which ultimately led to their deaths. Mr Makoda, during a visit to the school, cautioned students against taking justice into their own hands.
Offering condolences on behalf of the state government, he prayed for the departed souls. “On behalf of the Kano State government, Ministry of Education, and the people of Kano, we extend our condolences to the families of the deceased and pray that Almighty Allah grants them Jannatul Firdaus,” he said.
Abbas Abdullahi, director of the Kano State Senior Secondary School Management Board, described the incident as alarming and urged students to act responsibly.
A family member of one of the deceased, Ibrahim Yusuf-Dungurawa, called on the government to ensure accountability. Likewise, Idris Garba-Tofawa, father of the second victim, stated that while the family accepts the tragedy as God’s will, they implore the authorities to ensure such incidents do not happen again.
The government has vowed to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding these unfortunate deaths.
