A teacher of Ijaiye Ojokoro Junior College, Lagos, Mr. Peter Shodipe, remains in police custody following an educational drama presentation on insecurity that unexpectedly sparked panic among students and residents.
The drama, organized as part of a school awareness programme on banditry, kidnapping, and security consciousness, was reportedly designed to educate students on contemporary security challenges facing the country. However, the exercise took an unexpected turn when some students allegedly mistook the role-play for a real-life attack and raised an alarm.
The resulting confusion led to panic within the school environment, with students fleeing classrooms and nearby residents alerting security agencies.
Despite the controversy, colleagues of the detained teacher have defended his actions, insisting that the presentation was a legitimate educational exercise approved by the school’s National Value Education Department. They argued that the programme included awareness talks, quizzes, and drama sessions aimed at teaching students about the causes, effects, and prevention of insecurity.
According to sources within the school, preparations for the event were conducted openly, with security personnel and some parents reportedly observing students rehearsing and dressing in costumes before the programme commenced.
The incident has since generated debate within educational circles, with many teachers expressing concern that a classroom-based learning activity has resulted in the detention of an educator carrying out assigned duties.
Colleagues are now calling on authorities to conduct a comprehensive review of the incident, stressing that while lessons may be learned regarding communication and planning, the matter should be treated within its educational context.
They also urged investigators to obtain statements from teachers, students, parents, and security officials present during the preparations before reaching a final conclusion.
The development has raised broader questions about the use of practical learning methods in schools and the need for clear communication when addressing sensitive topics such as insecurity.
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