The Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa, on Saturday, revealed that he spoke to Sylvester Oromoni, the father of a late student from Dowen College in Lagos, Sylvester Oromoni Jr.
Taking to his social media platforms, the Governor stated that during the call, he expressed his agreement with the Lagos government to launch an investigation into the child’s death.
He said, “Last night, I spoke to Mr. Sylvester Oromoni, the father of late Sylvester Oromoni Jr., the Dowen College student who unfortunately died under very controversial and unclear circumstances.
“During the call, I expressed my agreement with the decision of the Lagos State government to launch an investigation into the death of Sylvester, a native of Warri South LGA in Delta State.”
The Governor also condoled with the family, as he pledged to ensure justice over the case.
“As we continue to watch this case closely, we extend our prayers and support to the Oromoni family. As they mourn the loss of their young son, I pray that Almighty God gives them the strength that they need at this difficult time,” Okowa said.
This comes a day after the Lagos State Ministry of Education announced the indefinite closure of Dowen College, Lekki, pending the outcome of the investigation into the boy’s death.
Reports had emerged that Oromoni was bullied and beaten by fellow students.
The supposed injuries from the beating led to his death, according to a Twitter user with the handle @perrisonoromoni, who claimed to be the boy’s cousin.
However, in a statement on Wednesday, the school denied all allegations stating that Oromoni was neither bullied nor beaten but only complained of hip pain after playing football.
Contrary to the school’s statement, the victim’s cousin rolled out photos and video evidence, which corroborated the fact that the child was bullied and beaten; an act that led to his death.
Celebrities and Nigerians on social media has demanded justice for the late Sylvester and has rolled out the hashtag #justiceforsylvester to voice out their agitations.