JSS2 Student Dies After Alleged Assault by Senior Over Provision in Akwa Ibom School

Tension has risen at Federal Government College, Ikot Ekpene, following the death of a Junior Secondary School 2 student, Ufokobong Edwin Godwin, aged 12, after an alleged assault involving a senior student over provisions.

Reports indicate that the incident occurred before the Easter break and left the pupil with a neck injury. He was later taken to hospital on Easter Sunday after his condition worsened.

A student who shared a hostel with the deceased said the confrontation began during terminal examinations when a Senior Secondary School 3 student allegedly demanded food items. The younger student reportedly declined, saying he had insufficient supplies.

The student alleged that the senior student struck him on the neck, after which he briefly lost consciousness. He was said to have been taken for medical attention, regained consciousness, and later returned to school before going home for the holiday with his parents.

According to the account, the boy later complained of persistent neck pain at home. His parents initially treated him with pain relief medication, unaware of the severity of the injury.

His condition reportedly deteriorated, prompting his father to take him to hospital, where he died on Easter Sunday. Medical findings were said to indicate complications linked to blood flow restriction in the neck area.

The school principal, Mr. Jude Ezeogu, confirmed the death, describing it as a painful loss to the school community. He said the management would review the circumstances surrounding the incident and communicate its findings after deliberation.

The police spokesperson in Akwa Ibom, Timfon John, said confirmation would be provided after verification, but had not issued an update at the time of filing this report.

The bereaved family has called for a full investigation into the circumstances leading to the student’s death. The father of the deceased said he was seeking official intervention to ensure accountability.