School mourns demise of two-year-old pupil, promises justice, reforms

The management of Smiley Kids Montessori School, Sangotedo, Lagos, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of one of its preschool pupils, two-year-old Raphaella Ogbodo, who passed away following an incident at the school’s swimming pool on January 15, 2025.

In a statement yesterday, the school described the incident as unprecedented in its 17-year history, stating that it had always prioritised the safety and wellbeing of its pupils.

“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.

The school acknowledged responsibility for the incident and assured the public of its cooperation with law enforcement agencies and government authorities to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.

The statement added: “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.

“We apologise for the disruption this may cause to our pupils’ learning and their families’ routines, and we appreciate your understanding during this difficult time.”

It further appealed for patience and privacy for the grieving family, adding, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ogbodo family during this time of unimaginable loss.”

In the wake of the incident, the Lagos State government deployed multiple agencies, including the Office of Education Quality Assurance, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, and Lagos State Safety Commission, to investigate the matter.

The mother of the deceased, who uses the handle @ElllaAbiaPrincess on X (formerly Twitter), had earlier called for justice, alleging that the school falsely claimed her daughter drowned.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), through its Permanent Secretary, Mrs Titilayo Adeniyi-Vivour, disclosed that the matter is being handled by the police at Ogombo Division and the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, for further investigation and potential prosecution.

The DSVA also expressed condolences to the bereaved family, reiterating its commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice.