Late 12-year-old Sylvester Oromoni to be buried on January 27

The family of 12-year-old pupil Dowen College student, late Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, has announced January 27, 2024, as the date for his burial.

Oromoni, Jnr died of complications as a result of injuries sustained from an attack by a group of five senior students for allegedly refusing to join a cult group in the school.

But the school denied the claim, stating that the boy complained of pain in his legs and hip following an injury he sustained while playing football. The Lagos State Government had shut down the school indefinitely to ensure thorough investigation.

After Sylvester’s unfortunate demise, a coroner inquest into his death was instituted by the Lagos state government and the report of the inquest is expected to be made public on April 12, 2024.

A statement released on Monday, January 22, by the family reads;

“As a family grappling with the profound sorrow brought about by this inexplicable loss, we have chosen to bid farewell to Sylvester on Saturday, January 27, 2024 with final rites to be conducted at Ogbe-Ijaw Warri Kingdom, Delta state.

Exactly two years ago, precisely on November, 30, 2021, the death of our 12-year-old son, Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, a pupil of Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos State, was announced in controversial circumstances, after he was tortured to death by some senior students who wanted to initiate him into a cult group and till date we as family is yet to get justice in the matter.

Sylvester, born on December 4, 2009, met a devastating end on November 30, 2021, succumbing to injuries inflicted in a harrowing assault by fellow students.

Before his untimely demise, Sylvester was renowned for his exceptional intellect and maturity beyond his years. A young mind brimming with potential, he demonstrated remarkable initiative and an extraordinary sense of humor, endearing him to those fortunate enough to cross paths with him. Sylvester’s insatiable passion for knowledge, particularly in fields of computer science, programming, electrical science, and his special interest in football set him apart.

His absence has left an irreplaceable void in our lives as a family and the lives of those who hold him dear, and his legacy will endure through the indelible memories of the profound impact he made on those around him.

As we continue to mourn our son, we as a family implore everyone to honour Sylvester’s memory by reflecting on the bright spirit that enriched their lives and celebrate the intellect that radiated from his young mind. As the community mourns the loss of this promising scholar, we will continue to demand justice for our beloved son who was murdered in cold blood by fellow students,” the statement stated.