The Nigerian Army has begun investigating the alleged assault of a Senior Secondary School 3 (SS3) student at Command Secondary School, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos.

There are also indications that the person who leaked the photograph of the student — allegedly assaulted by a bursar at the school — will be questioned by the management.

Tension was evident when The Guardian visited the school yesterday. The Commandant, Olagbende Oluwafemi, asked the reporter to wait outside his office and, about 10 minutes later, directed the Vice Principal (Administration), Alhaji Tijani, to inform the reporter that the matter was under investigation.

However, The Guardian learnt that the school management is displeased about the leak.

It was also gathered that the officer involved was conducting routine field checks. According to sources, the school has specific dress codes for regular classes and afternoon lessons, and students are aware that violations result in punishment determined by the on-duty officer. The student was said to have breached the dress code.

One source said, “Is it necessary to spread everything that happens because of access to telephones and social media? What occurred was a minor issue. Although the man has been cautioned, the school management has examined the student and found no wounds; the mark is due to the sensitivity of her skin, so it is not a case of assault.

“This is the consequence of social media; the person who shared the picture will be disciplined. Our main concern is the individual who posted it online, and we will address that. This matter could have been handled internally. The Chief Army Staff and Chief of Defence Staff are aware of this.” (The Guardian)