kakalistiq.com reports that the Lagos State education sector was thrown into mourning on Monday, December 30, 2024, when a tragic road accident claimed the life of a teacher and left 15 others critically injured. The incident occurred along the Odolewu-Itamapako axis of the Epe-Ijebu Ode Expressway as an 18-seater bus transporting teachers returning from a state audit exercise collided with a trailer.
The calamity has sparked outrage among educators and stakeholders, especially considering the reportedly chaotic and stressful conditions teachers endured earlier that day at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Alausa, Ikeja. The audit exercise, according to teachers who spoke anonymously, was marked by inadequate planning, with many teachers—both young and elderly—collapsing or falling ill due to exhaustion.
Reacting to the tragedy while on a condolence visit to victims at the Epe General Hospital yesterday, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, described the incident as “deeply unfortunate.” He assured teachers that the state government would handle all healthcare support for the victims.
“We understand your grievances and regret the unintended hardships caused during the audit exercise,” Alli-Balogun said. “I appeal to all affected to remain calm as we work towards a sustainable resolution. This government values its teachers and is committed to ensuring their welfare.”
“We appreciate the efforts of those who rushed to assist in this unfortunate situation. Special thanks go to the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Epe Branch, the Epe General Hospital staff, and the Epe Local Government Chairman for their swift response,” he added.
TESCOM Commissioner III, Hon. Segun Agbaje, echoed this sentiment. “We empathize with the teachers and their families. This is a tragedy we deeply regret, and I want to assure all teachers that those transferred to LASUTH will be fully supported to receive adequate medicare,” Agbaje stated.
During a visit to the Epe General Hospital, Comrade Ayetoba Gbenga, the State Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), voiced the union’s disappointment.
“This is a sad moment for the teachers of Lagos State,” he said. “The accident and its aftermath were avoidable if the government had planned better. Decentralization of the staff audit process would have prevented the unnecessary stress and chaos experienced by teachers.”
Comrade Gbenga further called for the immediate suspension of the staff audit exercise, citing the need for a more humane and organized approach. “Teachers will no longer submit to such processes unless they are decentralized and properly executed,” he declared.
Prince Segun Osinake, the Tutor General and Permanent Secretary of Education District IV, represented the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro during a visit to the injured at the Epe General Hospital and their various homes. He provided financial and emotional support to the victims and their families.
The deceased, Mr. A.A. Adeyeye, was buried yesterday amidst tears at his residence near Vanguards Academy. Colleagues, friends, and family members paid tribute to his dedication to his profession, humanitarian spirit, and commitment to his faith.
“He was a devoted teacher and a pillar of support to many,” said a colleague. “His loss is not just personal but a blow to the teaching community.”
The tragic incident has reignited calls for better treatment and welfare of teachers in Lagos State. Educators and their unions are demanding immediate interventions to prevent future occurrences, with decentralization of such exercises being a primary recommendation.
As investigations continue, the Lagos State Government faces mounting pressure to address the systemic issues highlighted by this incident and ensure the safety and well-being of its teachers.
