The Kano State Government has launched a full-scale investigation into the tragic deaths of two students at Government Boarding Secondary School, Bichi.
The victims, identified as Hamza Idris-Tofawa and Umar Yusuf-Dungurawa, reportedly died after an assault by fellow students who allegedly used improvised metal objects, locally known as Gwale-Gwale, as a form of punishment.
Commissioner for Education, Ali Haruna Makoda, gave the directive for an immediate and transparent inquiry into the incident. Speaking through the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Bashir Baffa, the Commissioner assured the public that the government was determined to uncover the truth and bring justice to all parties involved.
“It is an unfortunate and tragic incident. The Kano State Government is committed to conducting a thorough, fair and transparent investigation to uncover the truth and ensure justice for all involved,” Makoda stated.
Preliminary findings suggest that the deceased students were allegedly punished by senior students for reportedly committing an offence, a situation that tragically led to their deaths.
During a condolence visit to the school on behalf of the ministry, Baffa warned students against taking the law into their own hands.
“You should avoid taking the law into your hands and always report matters of concern to the school authorities for appropriate action,” he cautioned.
Makoda also extended the state government’s condolences to the bereaved families and offered prayers for the souls of the departed.
“On behalf of the Kano State Government, Ministry of Education, and the good people of Kano State, we extend our condolences to the families of the deceased and pray that Almighty Allah grants them Jannatul Firdaus,” he said.
Adding his voice, the Director of the Kano State Senior Secondary School Management Board, Alhaji Abbas Abdullahi, described the event as deeply disturbing. He urged students in leadership positions to exercise their authority responsibly.
Meanwhile, family members of the deceased students have appealed for justice. A relative of one of the victims, Ibrahim Yusuf-Dungurawa, urged the government to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Malam Idris Garba-Tofawa, father of the second deceased student, expressed his family’s acceptance of the tragedy as the will of God but called on the authorities to prevent such incidents in the future.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to leaving no stone unturned in its bid to get to the root of the matter and ensure justice is served.
