The Girls Education Partnership (GEP) Kano, a coalition of civil society organizations advocating for girls’ education in the state, has called for an immediate and independent investigation into the death of 14-year-old Maimuna Salisu Yaro, a JSS2 student of St. Louis Secondary School, Kano.
In a position statement signed by its Chairperson, Dr. Mairo Bello, and Secretary, Safiyanu Bichi, the coalition expressed shock, grief, and outrage over the circumstances surrounding the student’s death.
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The organization stated that while it acknowledges the Kano State Government’s efforts and investments in promoting girl-child education, the death of a student within a school environment raises serious concerns about student safety and welfare.
According to GEP Kano, allegations surrounding the incident, including claims that the student collapsed after being subjected to disciplinary punishment, was allegedly denied water, left under the sun, and later died must be thoroughly investigated.
The coalition noted that if the allegations are proven, they would constitute serious violations of child protection laws, including the Child Rights Act and existing education policies in Kano State.
GEP Kano also expressed concern over reports of restricted access to information regarding the incident, alleging that parents and other stakeholders were denied access while the matter was treated as an internal issue.
The group said transparency and accountability are essential in addressing the tragedy and restoring public confidence.
Among its key demands, the coalition called on the Kano State Government and the Nigeria Police Force to immediately launch a transparent and independent investigation and provide regular public updates on the progress of the case.
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It further urged St. Louis Secondary School to grant access to parents, Ministry of Education officials, human rights organizations, and representatives of the St. Louis Old Girls Association (SLOGA), while making available all relevant records, including medical reports and incident documentation.
The organization also demanded the suspension of any staff members directly linked to the student’s punishment and supervision pending the outcome of investigations.
In addition, GEP Kano called on the Kano State Ministry of Education to explain the circumstances surrounding the alleged delay in reporting the incident and to clarify the roles of all institutions involved in handling the matter.
The coalition advocated immediate reforms to strengthen child protection mechanisms in schools, including a ban on corporal punishment and degrading disciplinary measures, a statewide audit of school disciplinary policies, and mandatory safeguarding training for teachers and school administrators.
It also urged the government to provide psychosocial support for the bereaved family and students affected by the incident and to ensure compensation and legal assistance if negligence is established.
Addressing various stakeholders, the group called on school authorities, government agencies, security institutions, faith-based organizations, parents, and civil society groups to prioritize justice, transparency, and the protection of children.
“Maimuna Salisu Yaro deserves justice. Her parents deserve the truth. Every girl in Kano deserves to be safe in school,” the statement read.
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GEP Kano pledged to continue monitoring the case and collaborate with stakeholders, government agencies, civil society organizations, and the media, until the facts surrounding the incident are fully established and necessary reforms are implemented.
The coalition also urged the Executive Governor of Kano State to treat the matter as an emergency, stressing that ensuring accountability is essential to safeguarding the future of girl-child education in the state.