Lagos – A Deputy Director with the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Jubril Yakubu, testified before the Lagos High Court in Ikeja regarding the activities of Whitney Adeniran, a late Chrisland School student, prior to her death. Yakubu stated that Whitney had visited the hospital on January 20, 2023, and was present at school on February 1, 7, and 9, participating in inter-house sports activities.

However, on the day of the inter-house sports event, Whitney chose not to participate in the activities. During cross-examination, Demola Animashaun, counsel for Chrisland Schools, asked Yakubu if he was aware that Whitney did not participate in the inter-house sports. Yakubu confirmed, “Yes, and she was not forced by the school to participate.”

Yakubu emphasized that his responsibilities did not include emergency measures but noted that the provision of nurses at such events should be a part of emergency preparedness. He testified that his authority and competence allowed him to speak on emergency signals, based on findings from a meeting with the school.

When questioned further, Yakubu admitted that he did not know the exact number of schools in District Six as of December 31, 2023, but stated he was responsible for over 1,722 schools approved by the Ministry of Education. “Mine has to do with social services and I have the competence to speak about District Six,” he said.

Yakubu also mentioned that he did not have the precise number of students exposed to social risk in District Six. However, he highlighted that each school should have a designated safeguarding and child protection officer among the staff. He referred to Mrs. Tawa Sodiq, a school social officer in District Six, who reports to him.

After Yakubu’s testimony, Justice Oyindamola Ogala discharged the witness and adjourned the trial to June 13 for continuation.

This case continues to draw significant attention as it seeks to address the circumstances surrounding Whitney Adeniran’s tragic death and the responsibilities of educational institutions in safeguarding student welfare.