Swimming pool incident: Lagos clamps down on Montessori School

[Press Release] The Lagos State Government clamped down on a Montessori School, Smiley Kids Montessori, Heritage Place Estate, Sangotedo, Lagos, on Friday, January 17, 2025, following the death of a 2-year-old female pupil, Miss Raphaela Ogbodo, in its swimming pool.

The school was placed under lock and key as government begins preliminary investigation to ascertain the root cause of the drowned 2-year-old pupil of the school.

The State Government extends deep condolences to the family of the victim and reiterates its commitment to preventing future occurrences.

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Meanwhile, Mr. Thomas Ayodele, proprietor of the yet- to-be-approved school, Mrs. Antonia Igbafe, Head of nursery class and Helen Obhodaghe, the class teacher, are in Police custody for further interrogations.

Others in Police custody are Mohammed Hauwa and Mohammed Habibat. Both are caregivers and Mr. Udofia Ini-Obong, the Pool Instructor.

The State Government appeals to school owners and caregivers that it is imperative to comply with safety regulations to prevent accidents in the school and state in general.

‘Kayode Sutton
Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education
January 17, 2025