ActionAid condemns alleged bullying at Igbinedion school, warns of systemic child protection failures and calls for urgent reforms nationwide.

Fresh concerns over the safety of schoolchildren in Nigeria have emerged following allegations of violence and bullying at Igbinedion Education Centre, prompting strong condemnation from ActionAid Nigeria.

The organisation described the incident as a serious violation of children’s rights, warning that it reflects deeper systemic failures within Nigeria’s child protection framework.

Speaking in Abuja, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, said the case goes beyond isolated misconduct, pointing instead to widespread gaps in monitoring, reporting, and accountability in schools.

“Every child has the right to protection from violence,” he said, stressing that failure to detect or address abuse signals a breakdown in the duty of care expected from educational institutions.

According to him, the incident highlights weaknesses in safeguarding systems, particularly the inability to identify early warning signs or prevent escalation.

ActionAid noted that the situation is symptomatic of a broader and often hidden problem of bullying and school-related gender-based violence across the country.

The organisation said many cases remain unreported due to fear, stigma, and the lack of trusted reporting channels for victims.

It also expressed concern over the circulation of videos linked to the incident, reportedly shared by students, describing it as evidence of failing internal reporting systems and increasing reliance on social media to expose abuse.

The group criticised what it described as a reactive approach to child protection, where authorities act only after incidents gain public attention rather than through proactive enforcement.

Calling for urgent reforms, ActionAid urged the Federal Ministry of Education, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to strengthen safeguarding policies and establish effective monitoring and reporting systems.

It also called on schools to introduce confidential reporting mechanisms, enforce strict disciplinary measures, and provide continuous training for staff on child protection and conflict management.

Law enforcement agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, were urged to ensure thorough investigation and prosecution of offenders.

Parents were also encouraged to support children in speaking out against abuse and to take an active role in safeguarding their welfare.

ActionAid warned that without immediate and coordinated action, incidents of school-based violence could escalate, posing serious risks to the safety and wellbeing of Nigerian children. (AriseNews TV)