The Lagos State Government has shut down Smiley Kids Montessori in Heritage Place Estate, Sangotedo, following the tragic death of two-year-old Rapheala Ogbodo in a swimming pool accident.The announcement was shared in a recent statement on the government’s verified X account.
The incident came to light after a woman named Ella publicly expressed her grief, revealing that her two-year-old daughter, who had been sent to school, tragically lost her life in the accident. In response, officials from the Lagos State Safety Commission and the Office of Education Quality Assurance under the Ministry of Education visited the school to carry out a preliminary investigation. The closure is intended to facilitate a thorough inquiry into the circumstances that led to the unfortunate event.
Statement Released by Lagos State Safety Commission
The Lagos State Safety Commission has released a statement addressing the tragic swimming pool accident that occurred at Smiley Kids Montessori, located in Heritage Place Estate, Sangotedo, Lagos, on January 15, 2025. The incident, which resulted in the death of two-year-old Rapheala Ogbodo, has drawn significant attention and prompted an immediate response from the authorities.
In the statement, the Commission confirmed that officials from both the Lagos State Safety Commission and the Office of Education Quality Assurance under the Ministry of Education visited the school to conduct a preliminary investigation. Their objective was to examine the scene of the accident and determine the factors that led to the devastating event.
As part of the ongoing investigation, the state government has temporarily shut down the school to ensure a comprehensive and uninterrupted inquiry into the incident. While expressing deep sorrow over the loss of young Rapheala, the government extended its heartfelt condolences to her family, assuring them and the public of its dedication to identifying any lapses and implementing measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, emphasised the importance of adhering to safety protocols, particularly in schools and childcare facilities. He stressed that all school proprietors and caregivers must strictly comply with safety regulations to safeguard the well-being of children and prevent avoidable accidents.
Mr. Mojola further assured the public that additional details regarding the findings of the investigation would be disclosed as soon as the inquiry is concluded. The government remains committed to ensuring accountability and enhancing safety standards across the state.
