…Students demand justice after the death of Ajayi Abimbola Adejoke at School Clinic.
Students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State have called for the conduct of a transparent and unbiased investigation into the alleged negligence of the staff of the School Clinic, demanding that any wrongdoing must be met with appropriate disciplinary measures.
This is after an HND student of the Leisure and Tourism Department, Ajayi Abimbola Adejoke lost her life at the school clinic of the Federal Polytechnic Ilaro due to alleged negligence on the part of clinic staff.
The students made their demands known in a statement jointly signed by the Student Union President of The Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, Thanni Damilare Abdullahi, Deputy Coordinator NAPS Southwest, Oloyede Hassan, Sport Director NANS South West, Bammeke Solomon and NAOSS National Treasurer, Folarin Israel Goodness.
According to the statement, this incident, unfortunately, is not an isolated one, as reports suggest a pattern of indifference and neglect towards students seeking medical attention.
”The distressing reality is that this isn’t the first time such negligence has resulted in the loss of student lives. Despite being entrusted with the responsibility of providing medical care, the clinic staff’s alleged disregard for human life has led to preventable tragedies.
”As students, it is our collective demand for justice that drives us to speak out against these injustices. The loss of a fellow student is a loss to the entire community, and those responsible for such negligence must be held accountable.”
The students also said calls for a total reform and reshuffling of the clinic staff are not unwarranted as it has become evident that a systemic change is needed to ensure that such tragic incidents do not occur again in the future. This, they said will ensure students feel safe and assured that their health and well-being are prioritized when seeking medical assistance on campus.
”The attempt by the school to cover up the incident by falsely claiming that the student was pregnant and using medications is deeply troubling.
”It highlights a disturbing trend where the school management prioritizes protecting its reputation over the welfare and truthfulness regarding students’ health and safety.
”This act of misinformation is not only unjust but also undermines the trust and confidence that students and the wider community have in the school administration.
”It is unacceptable for the school to hastily conclude without conducting a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the student’s tragic demise.
”This is not an isolated incident but rather a manifestation of a systemic issue within the school’s administrative structure. The consistent lack of transparency and accountability only serves to perpetuate a culture of negligence and impunity.”
The statement suggested that relevant authorities be invited to intervene and hold the school and its management accountable for their actions.
”There must be checks and balances in place to ensure that the interests of students are prioritized above all else and that the truth prevails in matters concerning their well-being.
”Also, there is an urgent need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding these incidents. Those found guilty of negligence must face appropriate penalties to deter future occurrences and uphold the sanctity of human life.
”The resolve of the student body is firm, as we stand united in our demand for justice. We refuse to accept complacency or indifference in the face of such grave injustices. The decision to confront this issue head-on reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students.”
”We are using this medium to call on all students to come out en masse to join us in our stance against this injustice. What happened to the student today could happen to any of us tomorrow. It is a sobering reminder that none of us are immune to the consequences of negligence.
”We extend our call for action to the school management and the government. We urge them to listen to our pleas and come to our aid in this critical time. It is their responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of students on campus, and they cannot turn a blind eye to the injustices that have occurred.
”Together, as a united student body, we have the power to demand accountability and enact meaningful change. Let us stand together in solidarity to ensure that justice is served and that no more lives are lost due to negligence.”
The Statement called upon the NEC of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, as well as the Senior Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Student Engagement, to intervene in the matter because it is a Federal Institution.
It also urged them to ensure that students are protected from any form of victimization or reprisal for their participation in peaceful protests and advocacy efforts.
”Furthermore, we assert that if anything untoward happens to any student as a result of their pursuit of justice and exercising their rights, the school management must be held accountable. They must foster an environment where students feel empowered to voice their concerns without fear of retribution.
”Let it be known that we will not tolerate any form of suppression or silencing of student voices. We demand a safe and conducive environment where students can freely express themselves and seek redress for grievances without fear or intimidation. The responsibility lies with the school management and the authorities to uphold the rights and well-being of students at all times.”