The Al-azhar Academy in Zaria has been closed down by the Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority due to a tragic incident involving the alleged fatal flogging of a JSS 3 student named Marwan Sambo.
According to a report from the News Agency of Nigeria, the 19-year-old Sambo lost his life due to severe corporal punishment inflicted upon him as a consequence of his absenteeism.
In a statement released on Sunday, Dr. Usman Abubakar, the Director General of the KSSQAA, announced that the state has initiated a thorough investigation into this tragic incident.
“In the interim, guided by the provisions of its Establishment Act (amended 2015), the KSSQAA has closed down Al-Azhar Academy, Zaria and the school premises remain sealed pending the outcomes of the investigation,” he said.
Abubakar added that the KSSQAA team visited the Divisional Police Headquarters, Zaria City, where the school principal and the vice-principal were being detained.
“The fact-finding team then moved to Hajiya Gambo Sawaba General Hospital, Zaria, where the victim was formally confirmed dead.
“Finally, KSSQAA team visited the graveyard where the victim was said to have been put to rest, and a fresh-looking grave was observed,” he said.
The DG, therefore, noted that the State Government, under the leadership of Gov. Uba Sani, assured the general public of its firm resolve to ensure a conducive learning environment, equity and justice.
Against the backdrop, he urged members of the general public to remain calm and law-abiding while the investigation continued for justice to be served accordingly.
