A Lagos-based legal practitioner, Abdullahi Tony Dania, has demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of two students accused of violently assaulting a fellow student at Igbinedion Secondary School in Benin City, Edo State.

In a formal letter addressed to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Dania urged urgent action against the alleged perpetrators, identified as Choice Osarumen Asoro and Dino Uyi, following the circulation of disturbing viral videos depicting the incident.

The footage reportedly shows a student being brutally attacked within the school’s boarding premises, sparking widespread public outrage.

Dania expressed concern over the incident and criticised the police for allegedly requiring a formal complaint before initiating an investigation.

He emphasised that such a requirement is unnecessary in cases involving violent crimes, as the police have a statutory duty to act regardless of whether a victim or guardian files a complaint.

Additionally, Dania highlighted that under Nigeria’s juvenile justice system, the state has the authority to prosecute criminal offences involving minors, and the absence of a formal complaint does not excuse inaction by law enforcement authorities.

In addition to addressing the immediate case, Dania raised concerns about a potential pattern of systemic bullying and abuse within the institution. He referenced testimonies from a former student alleging similar incidents in the past, suggesting a more widespread issue.

Dania, therefore, called for a broader investigation into the school, including allegations of cult-related activities among students and potential institutional complicity, urging the police to refer the matter to the Force Criminal Investigation Department in Abuja for a comprehensive probe.

He advised the school management to establish an independent panel of inquiry, review past incidents, and implement stricter anti-bullying measures, including surveillance systems and a zero-tolerance policy.

The lawyer cautioned that failure by the police to act within 72 hours could result in legal proceedings to compel enforcement of their duties. (The Guardian)