The family of one of the students involved in a widely circulated bullying incident at Igbinedion Education Centre in Benin City, Edo State, has apologised to the victim and his family.
The apology followed the emergence of a viral video showing a group of male students assaulting a fellow student who was lying helplessly on the ground while another student recorded the incident.
Earlier, the school authorities announced the expulsion of all students found to have taken part in the attack.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by Tim Asoro on behalf of the Asoro family, the parents expressed shock and deep regret over their child’s role in the incident.
The family described watching the viral footage as a painful and distressing experience, noting that they felt deeply embarrassed by the conduct displayed.
They admitted being ashamed that their child participated in behaviour that inflicted pain and humiliation on another student.
Offering a direct apology to the victim and his relatives, the family stressed that no child deserves to be treated in such a degrading manner.
The statement noted that although medical checks confirmed the victim did not sustain physical injuries, the family acknowledged the gravity of the incident and the emotional trauma it may have caused.
According to the parents, the situation has prompted serious reflection within the family, adding that they had engaged their son in conversations about the consequences of his actions.
They said the boy had expressed remorse and now understood that his behaviour affected not only the victim but also the school community and his own family.
The parents further disclosed that steps were being taken to ensure their son receives proper counselling and guidance aimed at helping him develop better values and empathy for others.
They also stated that they respected the disciplinary measures taken by the school and again apologised to the victim, his family and the entire school community.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command had earlier directed the school management to present the students involved for investigation and possible prosecution.
The Edo State Ministry of Education has also inaugurated a five-member committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify all those involved.
Police authorities confirmed that investigations were ongoing, adding that individuals found culpable may face legal action.
The incident has also revived memories of a similar case in 2024 at Lead British International School in Gwarinpa, Abuja, where a student, Namtira Bwala, was repeatedly slapped by fellow students in a video that sparked widespread outrage across the country.
