Dowen College claims Oromoni’s injuries were from a fall during a football game. But X -rays show internal bruises
By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
Outrage has greeted the news of the death of a 12-year-old boy, Sylvester Oromoni Junior, beaten to death, allegedly, by his own schoolmates.
He died two days ago after battling internal injuries he sustained from suspected internal injuries. But Dowen College claimed the injuries were caused by a fall during a football match.
Peoples Gazette had quoted a relative of the deceased, @Perrisonoromoni, his Twitter handle, saying the 12-year-old was battered for refusing to join a cult group in the school. He says a series of tests and X-rays indicated that he sustained internal injuries.
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The report indicated that the school management had contacted the father of the deceased, Sylvester Oromoni, a Delta state politician, claiming the boy sustained injuries while playing football at the school.
“We’re from Delta State, but he goes to a boarding school in Lekki. They called my uncle that his son was injured when he was playing football. Reaching the hospital, it was confirmed that he was being bullied and beaten up, causing internal damages,” the relative disclosed.
“After tests and X-rays, it was confirmed he was beaten up badly. He died yesterday (Tuesday) morning, and his entire body was swollen,” he told The Gazette.
On Twitter, Nigerians have been expressing outrage while mourning the young Oromoni.
@OgbeniDipo said: “First of all, Dowen College needs to be closed down until the investigation is completed. Children need to be alive before they can receive an education. If the school remains open, then, the lives of the other kids there are not safe. If I was a parent I’ll go take my child out.”
@mrmacaroni said: “I deeply sympathize with the family of Sylvester Oromoni. I Just saw the video that was recorded before he died. He couldn’t move, his mouth swollen, teeth bleeding.. Football injuries don’t cause that much pain!!! Dowen college, there are a lot of questions begging to be answered.”
@NisforNora said: “My God. why do these schools always cover up nonsense? If you have siblings or know anyone that has young ones in Dowen College, now is a good time to advise them to get their kids out b/c O.Y.O (On your own).”