The family of a student involved in a viral bullying incident at Igbinedion Education Centre, Benin City, has issued a heartfelt apology for their son’s actions.
In a statement released on Sunday and signed by Tim Asoro , the family expressed shock and embarrassment over the video, which showed two male students beating and kicking another student lying on the ground, while a third student recorded the incident.
“Watching the video has been one of the most distressing and heartbreaking experiences of our lives as parents. We are deeply ashamed that our child was involved in conduct that has caused pain and distress to another young student,” the family said.
They directly apologised to the student affected, the boy’s family, and the school community, stating,”To the student who was affected, we want to say from the depths of our hearts that we are truly sorry. No child deserves to be treated in such a manner. Our hearts go out to him and to his family.”
The family confirmed that the victim is physically fine, according to medical reports, but stressed that the emotional distress caused is taken very seriously.
“While this brings some comfort to us as parents, it does not in any way diminish the seriousness of what occurred or the emotional distress that the incident may have caused,” the statement read.
They also extended apologies to the school management, teachers, parents, and students of Igbinedion Education Centre, “and it deeply saddens us that our son’s actions have brought distress and negative attention to the school community.”
The family said they have had serious discussions with their son, who expressed remorse and understands the consequences of his actions.
They acknowledged the disciplinary actions taken by the school and expressed hope for healing.
“He has expressed deep remorse and regret for his actions and understands that what happened has consequences not only for himself but for another child, for the school, and for our entire family.
“We are already taking steps to ensure that he receives the guidance, counseling, and moral support necessary to help him reflect, grow, and become a better and more compassionate young person,” the statement added.
“To the young boy who was hurt, to his family, to the school community, and to everyone who has been troubled by what they saw, we once again express our deepest apologies.
“Our family hopes and prays that healing will come to everyone affected by this painful incident,” the statement concluded.
PUNCH Online had reported that the Edo State Police Command had summoned the school management to hand over the students involved for investigation and possible prosecution, as the state government promised sanctions for anyone found culpable.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Ministry of Education has set up a five-man investigative committee to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify all students found culpable.
THE PUNCH
