Lagos Assembly Urges Governor Sanwo-Olu to Intervene After 12-Year-Old Student Injured by Alleged Police Tear Gas
Amidst growing concerns over police action, the Lagos State House of Assembly has urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the case of Amina Alege, a 12-year-old student of Adam Yakubu Memorial High School, who sustained an eye injury reportedly caused by tear gas deployed by the police.
A Call for Action
The Assembly’s resolution came to light following deliberations on the matter, brought to their attention by Hon. Abiodun Orekoya, Chairman of the House Committee on Sports and Youth Development, during the plenary session on Thursday, February 15, 2024. Presided over by Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda on behalf of Speaker Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the session underscored the urgency of addressing Amina’s plight.
Urgent Medical Assistance
Expressing grave concern for Amina’s well-being, the Assembly called upon Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, and the Ministry of Health to extend necessary medical support to the young girl, who reportedly requires surgery to address her injuries. The incident, which occurred on Friday, February 9, 2024, during a clash between students of two schools near a mosque in Iloro, Cement, Agege area of Lagos, left Amina with a life-threatening injury to her eye.
A Plea for Support
Orekoya, who received the distressing news through a human rights organization, revealed the dire financial strain faced by Amina’s parents as they struggle to afford her medical treatment at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). He implored his fellow lawmakers to urge Governor Sanwo-Olu to extend support to the family and ensure prompt medical attention for the injured student.
Demand for Accountability
In addition to advocating for immediate assistance, Hon. Kehinde Joseph (Alimosho 2) emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Given that Amina attends a government-owned school, Joseph stressed the governor’s responsibility to intervene and prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.
Investigation and Oversight
Responding to the urgency of the situation, Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda directed the House Committee Chairman on Education (Secondary) to summon the management of the schools involved in the clash. The committee is tasked with investigating the root causes of the altercation and submitting a comprehensive report within one week, highlighting steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As concerns mount over police conduct and student safety, the collective call for action underscores the Assembly’s commitment to upholding the welfare and rights of all Lagos residents, particularly vulnerable members of society like Amina Alege.
