The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu has confirmed that five students of Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos and three House masters are assisting the police in their investigation into the death of Sylvester Oromoni junior, a 12-year-old student of the college.
The House of Representatives had on Tuesday, mandated the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba to immediately take over the investigation into young Oromoni’s death with a view to ensuring that all those linked to his premature death are brought to book.
CP Odumosi, who confirmed the interrogation of the suspects, said they were those Sylvester mentioned before he died as “those who beat him”. The CP said they are already in custody and are helping the police in their investigation.
He however did not reveal their identities, but only said they are key suspects.
The CP also hinted that a team of operatives are set to visit Delta State for a post mortem of the body to ascertain the cause of death.
The police boss vowed that police authorities in both Lagos and Delta State are working together to unravel the mystery behind Sylvester’s death.
Meanwhile, the family of the deceased has hired the law firm of a foremost human rights lawyer and activist, Femi Falana, to prosecute the case against the institution over the death of their son.
Channels Television reported that it on Monday obtained the letter written by Falana to the office of Lagos State’s Chief Coroner, requesting an inquest into the circumstances leading to the death of his client’s child.
The letter was dated December 6, 2021, signed by Taiwo Olawale, and addressed to the chief coroner, High Court of Lagos State.
The news of the 12-year-old Sylvester went viral last week after a family member went on social media to demand justice. In a series of Tweets, the family member, with handle @Perrisonoromoni said Sylvester was assaulted by some senior students pf Dowen College. He added that Sylvester died after sustaining multiple internal injuries from being tortured and bullied.
In a video released online by the family member, Oromoni jr was seen writhing in pain. His teeth were stained dark red with blood. His legs were swollen, and his belly was bloated.
The Management of Dowen College in a statement claimed Sylvester was injured while playing football.