The Kano State government has initiated a comprehensive inquiry following the tragic deaths of two students at the Government Boarding Secondary School in Bichi.
The victims, Hamza Idris-Tofawa and Umar Yusuf-Dungurawa, reportedly lost their lives after an attack by fellow pupils who allegedly employed local metal objects known as “Gwale-Gwale” in what was described as a punitive measure.
Ali Makoda, the state’s Commissioner for Education, has mandated an immediate and transparent investigation into the incident. Speaking through the ministry’s permanent secretary, Bashir Baffa, Mr Makoda assured that justice would be pursued.
“This incident is both tragic and unfortunate. The Kano State government is dedicated to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation to uncover the truth and ensure accountability,” he stated.
Preliminary reports suggest that the deceased were allegedly punished by senior students for purportedly committing an offence, which led to their deaths. Mr Makoda, who visited the school on behalf of the ministry, warned students against vigilante justice.
The commissioner expressed condolences on behalf of the state government and prayed for the souls of the departed. “On behalf of the Kano State government, the Ministry of Education, and the citizens of Kano State, we extend our sympathies to the bereaved families and pray that Almighty Allah grants them Jannatul Firdaus,” he noted.
Abbas Abdullahi, the director of the Kano State Senior Secondary School Management Board, called the incident troubling and urged students to act responsibly.
A relative of one of the deceased, Ibrahim Yusuf-Dungurawa, urged the government to ensure justice and hold the perpetrators accountable. Similarly, Idris Garba-Tofawa, the father of the other victim, expressed acceptance of the tragedy as divine will but implored authorities to prevent such events from recurring.
The government has pledged to leave no stone unturned in uncovering the details surrounding these tragic deaths.