The Nigerian Army has launched an investigation into the alleged assault of a Senior Secondary School Three (SS3) student at Command Secondary School, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos, following the circulation of a photograph showing the student with visible injuries.
The image, which went viral on social media on Wednesday, triggered widespread concern and prompted authorities at the military-run institution to initiate a probe into the incident.
When The Guardian visited the school on Wednesday, tension was noticeable within the premises. The Commandant, Olagbende Oluwafemi, declined to speak directly with the reporter, asking that the journalist wait outside his office. About 10 minutes later, the school’s Vice Principal (Administration), Alhaji Tijani, emerged to state that the matter was currently under investigation.
Sources within the school indicated that the management was particularly displeased about the leak of the photograph, which allegedly showed the student after being assaulted by a bursar attached to the institution.
It was also gathered that the officer accused in the incident was conducting routine field checks when the situation occurred. According to insiders, the school maintains strict dress codes for both regular classes and afternoon lessons, and students are expected to comply with the regulations.
The student involved was reportedly found to have violated the prescribed dress code. In such cases, disciplinary measures are typically administered by the officer on duty.
A source familiar with the matter questioned the decision to publicise the incident on social media.
“Is it necessary to spread everything that happens because of access to telephones and social media? What occurred was a minor issue,” the source said.
The source further explained that the officer involved had already been cautioned by the school authorities.
“Although the man has been cautioned, the school management has examined the student and found no wounds. The mark observed was due to the sensitivity of her skin, so it is not a case of assault,” the source added.
School authorities are also reportedly focusing on identifying the individual who circulated the photograph online. According to the source, the person responsible for leaking the image could face disciplinary action.
“This is the consequence of social media. The person who shared the picture will be disciplined. Our main concern is the individual who posted it online, and we will address that,” the source said.
He added that the situation could have been resolved internally without attracting widespread public attention.
Meanwhile, it was learnt that the development has been reported to the highest levels of military leadership.
“The Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Defence Staff are aware of the matter,” the source disclosed.
The investigation is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether any disciplinary measures will be taken against those involved.
