In a press briefing held at the Ogun NUJ secretariat, the Old Students Association and Parents Forum of Ebenezer Grammar School, Iberekodo, Abeokuta, expressed shock and embarrassment over the reported rape case involving a Mathematics teacher, Lateef Olaniran. The suspect was apprehended on Saturday following a complaint lodged by an official of the Ministry of Women Affairs.
The community emphasized that this unfortunate incident should not be a reflection of the school’s reputation for providing sound education and fostering strong character development.
National President of the Old Students Association, Alhaji Tajudeen Olori, along with Alhaji Rasheed Fadipe and Pa Aderemi Koleosho, PTA Chairmen for the Senior and Junior sections respectively, condemned the alleged actions of Lateef Olaniran and called for his immediate suspension.
Olori stated, “It is unfortunate that Lateef Olaniran, is a teacher in our alma mater, but all his acts in this case of rape are personal and have nothing to do with the school. He committed those acts far away from school.”
The association highlighted that Olaniran had been an absentee teacher, previously reported to the state government through the Teaching Service Commission. Olori expressed concern that Olaniran’s actions had tarnished the school’s image in the public eye, emphasizing that the alleged rape did not occur within the school premises.
“We would like to request the immediate suspension of Lateef Olaniran pending the conclusion of the investigation. We also humbly request that Lateef Olaniran is not returned to EGSA after investigation and even trial. He cannot regain the confidence and cooperation of staff and students anymore,” Olori asserted.
The school community assured parents of the safety of their children, emphasizing that Ebenezer Grammar School maintained high moral and educational standards, continuing to produce responsible leaders for society and Nigeria at large. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare and security of its students.