Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Master Henry Okonkwo, a pupil at Landmark International School, Mgbakwu in Awka North Local Government Area. The young boy reportedly fell into a coma after being severely beaten by a teacher and passed away early Wednesday.
Reports indicate that Faith Nwoye, a 30-year-old teacher at the school, was arrested for allegedly flogging the eight-year-old into a coma on Monday. Chuma-Udeh had previously summoned Nwoye to explain the circumstances leading to the incident, which occurred on May 20, 2024.
The commissioner, profoundly saddened by the event, noted that a medical doctor had assessed the boy’s chances of survival at only 20 percent. She condemned the school’s illegal status and warned that those operating unauthorized institutions and engaging in such violent acts would face severe consequences.
Nwoye, along with the school’s proprietor, Mrs. Promise Ilo, was invited to provide further explanations. While Nwoye admitted to flogging the child, she claimed the beating was not as severe as reported.
The case has been handed over to the police for investigation. Despite being admitted to the intensive care unit, Henry succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of May 23, 2024.
On Thursday, Chuma-Udeh took to her verified Facebook page to lament the boy’s tragic death, describing him as a child with dreams and aspirations that were cruelly cut short.
She wrote, “He was a boy like any other, with hopes and aspirations. He went to school for a better future but met a gruesome death at the hands of the people who were supposed to help him achieve his life ambition.
“A quack teacher in an illegal school bludgeoned him to death. We mourn a life nipped in the bud! We mourn Henry Chukwuemeka Okonkwo! We mourn and we seek justice!”
