By Our Correspondent, Makurdi
Benue – July 12, 2025 | Newspointer News
A tragic incident has thrown the education community in Benue State into mourning following the alleged killing of a secondary school teacher by a 16-year-old student over a seized cap.
The incident occurred on Thursday at the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Secondary School, Oju Centre, in Oju Local Government Area of the state.
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NEWSPOINTER gathered that the student, identified as Friday Ogamude, reportedly confronted his teacher, Mr. Oyibe Oyibe, over a cap the teacher had confiscated two months earlier. The confrontation allegedly turned violent, leading to the collapse of the teacher.
Eyewitnesses said Mr. Oyibe, 35, was immediately rushed to Amara Hospital in Oju by concerned residents but was pronounced dead on arrival by medical personnel.
The spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the arrest of the student, stating that an investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We have the suspect in custody. A full investigation is underway. This is a tragic and unfortunate incident, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served,” she said.
The development has sparked outrage among education stakeholders, parents, and traditional leaders in the state, who described the act as a direct reflection of the declining discipline among students and the increasing vulnerability of teachers in public schools.
Reacting to the incident, education advocate and community leader, Mr. Terver Ogbole, said the case underscores the urgent need for moral reorientation and better enforcement of school disciplinary frameworks.
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“This is not just a school incident—it is a national emergency in values. Teachers can no longer safely enforce rules without fear of violence,” he said.
Meanwhile, the school management is yet to issue an official statement as academic activities were suspended following the incident.
The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the General Hospital morgue in Oju for autopsy.
The state government and Ministry of Education are yet to comment on the development, even as calls grow for a comprehensive review of safety protocols and disciplinary measures in public schools across the state.
