Police Launch Manhunt for Fleeing Teacher Who Allegedly Flogged 12-Year-Old Student to Death in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

A tragic incident has thrown a community in Anambra State into mourning after a 12-year-old student reportedly died following an alleged severe flogging by a teacher, prompting a statewide police manhunt for the suspect.

The Anambra State Police Command has launched an intensive manhunt for a teacher accused of allegedly flogging a 12-year-old student to death at a school in Adazi-Ani, Anaocha Local Government Area of the state.

The tragic incident, which occurred on July 16, 2026, has sparked outrage and renewed concerns over corporal punishment and the safety of children in Nigerian schools.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, operatives attached to the Neni Divisional Police Headquarters responded immediately after receiving a distress report and rushed the victim to a hospital.

Sadly, the child was pronounced dead by a medical doctor while receiving treatment.

“The Anambra State Police Command has activated its Safe School Initiative Operations, led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, ACP Harrison Oruruo,” Ikenga said in a statement.

“The team will, among other responsibilities, commence a manhunt for a teacher who allegedly flogged a 12-year-old student, resulting in the victim’s death at a school in Adazi-Ani, Anaocha Local Government Area of the state.”

The police spokesperson disclosed that the child’s body has been deposited in a hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy.

He added that preliminary findings revealed visible marks of violence on different parts of the victim’s body, findings that will form part of the ongoing investigation.

“The case is under active investigation, and all necessary steps are being taken to ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice,” Ikenga stated.

Expressing condolences to the bereaved family, the Command assured the public that the investigation would be conducted professionally, transparently, and without interference.

“The Command expresses deep concern over this tragic incident and reassures the family of the deceased and the general public that a thorough, diligent, and transparent investigation will be carried out.”

The police also reaffirmed their commitment to protecting children through the Safe School Initiative, stressing that schools must remain secure environments for learning and development.

Meanwhile, members of the public with information that could lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspect have been urged to report to the nearest police station or contact the Anambra State Police Command through its emergency line: 07039194332.

The identity of the deceased student and the school involved has not yet been officially disclosed.

The incident has reignited public debate over the use of corporal punishment in schools and the urgent need to strengthen child protection measures across Nigeria.