WHEN INCOMPETENCE OVERPOWERS COMPETENCE: THE SAD CASE OF ILUGUN HIGH SCHOOL ABEOKUTA
WHEN INCOMPETENCE OVERPOWERS COMPETENCE: THE SAD CASE OF ILUGUN HIGH SCHOOL ABEOKUTA
By Comrade Amb. Kunle Sodipo FICSSM,MNIMN,anipr
Abeokuta Ogun State, Nigeria.
Since what transpired at Ilugun High School, a secondary school in Abeokuta is no longer a new story, this epistle will only summarize key points since the matter is currently under Police investigation. The focus instead, will be on what is possible in any system where incompetence is either deliberately or not deliberately given an environment to thrive above competence. Except we want to deceive ourselves, there’s no argument to the fact that a lot is wrong with our system. A meticulous look at our module operandi plus how we have mastered and tactically perpetrates various acts of systemic corruption will throw more lights into why there’s increasing fire on our mountains with nobody on the run.
A good look and expert analysis of the videos in circulation where students in their large numbers vandalized school properties and beat teachers, highlights a disturbing trend of incompetence
overpowering competence in Nigeria’s education system. To state in clear terms, a student died after jumping into a river while attempting to evade arrest by Amotekun security operatives during a protest sparked by alleged illegal fee collection by the junior school principal, Mrs Alaba Olukoga. In response, the government suspended both the junior and senior school principals, pending a full investigation and at the same time expressed condolences to the bereaved family with assurance that anyone found culpable would face the law.
From the above, I can boldly state the underlying issues as follows:
* That the incident highlights real systemic corruption, as evidenced by the alleged illegal fee collection.
* That incompetence in school administration and security handling may have contributed to the tragic outcome
* That the lack of effective communication and grievance redress mechanisms may have escalated the situation
With these understanding, there’s a need to look at the possible solutions required to avoid a repeat of such sad incident in Ogun State and beyond.
I consider the following useful:
* Strengthening Accountability Mechanisms: Implementing robust monitoring and evaluation systems to prevent corruption and ensure adherence to regulations
* Improving Communication Channels: Establishing effective grievance redress mechanisms and fostering open communication between students, teachers and administrators.
Capacity Building for School Administrators: Providing training and support to enhance administrative competence and responsiveness
* Enhancing Security Protocols: Developing and implementing effective security protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future
Above all, the incident underscores the need for systemic reforms to address incompetence and corruption in Nigeria’s education system. By prioritizing accountability, capacity building, and effective communication, schools can create a safer and more supportive learning environment.
Comrade Amb. Kunle Sodipo (CKS) is a distinguished professional with a diverse portfolio. He is a licensed security consultant, marketing and public relations practitioner, leveraging his expertise to drive strategic communication and brand growth. As a public affairs analyst, he offers insightful commentary on matters of public interest. A prolific author, CKS shares his thoughts and ideas through his writings. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Criminological Studies and Security Management Nigeria (ICSSM), Member of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), Associate of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and recipient of an Honorary Doctorate Dergree in “Conflict Resolution and Peace Advocacy” from DIIBS International University. His passion for child safety and youth empowerment has earned him recognition as a child safety advocate and youth inclusiveness crusader. He is the CEO of Leadpath Global Resources Limited and SSA Media and Publicity to the National Chairman of Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC). Additionally, his charisma and eloquence have made him a sought-after master of ceremonies, hosting various events with finesse and aplomb.
Wednesday 1st October 2025. Email:kdrexafricanchild@gmail.com
Phone: +2348033823808