Ibadan, Oyo State – Police in Ibadan have arrested 57 Government Technical College students linked to vandalism at CAC Grammar School.
Authorities confirmed the March 20 incident caused significant property damage and injuries during a 3:20 p.m. attack.
Witnesses reported that the students stormed CAC Grammar School, shattering laboratory windows under renovation. Meanwhile, the group allegedly smashed a staff member’s vehicle windows and injured an engineer onsite. School officials collaborated with security agencies to identify suspects swiftly.
Following the incident, police apprehended all 57 students within hours. Investigators are determining the attack’s motive while assessing repair costs. “We will ensure accountability,” stated a police spokesperson, promising heightened surveillance near schools.
The vandalism has sparked debates over student discipline and campus safety. Parents and educators demand stricter measures to prevent future clashes. Meanwhile, CAC Grammar School remains closed temporarily for repairs.
Local leaders urge calm, emphasizing community-led solutions to youth conflicts. “Destruction solves nothing,” said a community elder, advocating dialogue between schools. Authorities plan to meet with stakeholders to address security gaps.
Medical staff treated the injured engineer for minor wounds, confirming his stable condition. Affected staff described the attack as “unprovoked,” stressing the need for conflict resolution programs.
Police recovered damaged items as evidence, including glass fragments and tools from the renovation site. Forensic teams are analyzing fingerprints to verify involvement. Parents of accused students await formal charges.
Education officials condemned the violence, pledging to review school safety policies. “Learning environments must be protected,” declared an education ministry representative. Renovation work at CAC Grammar School will resume next week.
This incident underscores rising concerns about youth-led violence in Oyo State. Recent months saw similar clashes, prompting calls for statewide security audits. Residents hope renewed efforts will curb unrest.
Investigators continue interviewing suspects while compiling damage reports. Legal experts warn that convicted students face fines or community service. Juvenile justice advocates emphasize rehabilitation over punishment.
As tensions simmer, students’ families seek transparency in the probe. “Our children deserve fairness,” one parent insisted. Community leaders plan peace rallies to foster unity among rival schools.
The Oyo State government has allocated funds for school security upgrades, including CCTV installations. Governor Seyi Makinde reiterated commitments to safeguarding educational institutions. “We prioritize students’ welfare,” he affirmed.
Meanwhile, CAC Grammar School’s alumni association donated materials to expedite repairs. Students from both institutions await resolutions, hopeful normalcy returns soon. Counseling services will be offered to address trauma.
This case highlights urgent needs for conflict mediation training and youth engagement initiatives. Experts argue that addressing root causes, like peer rivalry, can prevent recurrences.
Authorities will submit findings to prosecutors within two weeks. Until then, residents remain vigilant, urging collaboration to restore peace. The incident serves as a stark reminder of collective responsibility in nurturing safer communities.