Discover the controversy surrounding Sylvester Oromoni's tragic death at Dowen College in Lagos. Allegations of bullying and suppression of evidence emerge, challenging official accounts. Despite a coroner's ruling of natural causes, questions linger. Sylvester's family seeks justice and calls for action against bullying in schools.
The Oromoni family accuses Mikhail Kadiri, the coroner, of suppressing evidence to absolve Dowen College of responsibility in the death of their son, Sylvester Oromoni. Sylvester, aged 12, died under disputed circumstances on November 30, 2021, while attending Dowen College in Lagos.
Allegations from Sylvester's parents claim he was bullied, physically assaulted, and forced to ingest a toxic substance by five fellow students. Dowen College refuted these claims, attributing Sylvester's injuries to a football accident.
Initial autopsy results by Dr. Clement Vhriterhire suggested Sylvester's death was due to "acute lung injury due to chemical intoxication." However, a subsequent autopsy by Lagos DPP indicated natural causes, citing sepsis.
After a two-year legal battle, Kadiri ruled in favor of Dowen College, dismissing claims of foul play. He attributed Sylvester's death to sepsis resulting from an ankle injury, citing parental and medical negligence.
However, Sylvester's family, represented by Femi Falana, accused Kadiri of disregarding crucial evidence and facilitating a cover-up. They argue that Kadiri ignored testimony indicating bullying and overlooked evidence of a toxic substance found in Sylvester's stomach.
The family also highlighted instances of previous bullying incidents at Dowen College, alleging a systemic issue that the school failed to address. They call for a thorough investigation into bullying at the school and accountability for those responsible.
Despite Kadiri's verdict, the Oromoni family remains committed to seeking justice for Sylvester and preventing similar tragedies from occurring in the future. They urge the Lagos State Government to take action against bullying in schools and hold perpetrators accountable.
