A human rights lawyer, Ikechukwu Obasi, has called for an immediate investigation into the alleged assault and humiliation of a female student at Community Secondary School, Okpitumo, in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The student was allegedly brutalised by the school’s Senior Prefect for refusing to kneel before him.
Obasi, in a statement released on Friday, described the incident as barbaric and dehumanising, insisting that no student has the right to use a position of authority to intimidate, punish or assault another student.
He maintained that the alleged action amounted to assault, bullying and an abuse of authority, adding that the responsibility for disciplining students belongs to teachers and school management.
The lawyer also explained that the alleged treatment violated provisions of the Child Rights Act 2003, as domesticated in Ebonyi State, which protects children against physical, mental and emotional abuse, as well as degrading treatment.
Inside Ebonyi state:
Ebonyi Police Arrest 620 Suspects, Recover 31 Firearms, 33 Ammunition
Police Arrest Two Over Alleged ₦700,000 Collection From Six Families In Ebonyi
Ebonyi Police Arrest Six, Recover AK-47 Over Murder of Traditional Ruler in Ishinkwo
He warned that senior students should not be allowed to turn their positions into instruments of intimidation and violence against their juniors.
Obasi consequently urged the Ebonyi State Ministry of Education and the State Secondary Education Board to investigate the incident and ensure that anyone found responsible faces appropriate disciplinary action.
He also called on the school’s management to educate prefects and students about the limits of their authority and the importance of respecting child protection policies.
Furthermore, he appealed for counselling and other necessary support for the affected student.
The lawyer urged the Ebonyi State Government, National Human Rights Commission and civil society organisations to strengthen efforts to prevent bullying and degrading punishment in schools.
He added that he would continue monitoring the matter to ensure justice for the affected student.
About the Author
