Kano Govt Panel Clears St. Louis Girls Secondary School Of Wrongdoing In Student’s Death, Says She Died Of Natural Causes

A Kano State Government panel has cleared St. Louis Secondary School of any wrongdoing in the death of 14-year-old Maimuna Salisu Yaro, known as Nihal, concluding that she died of natural causes.

The panel’s verdict contradicts earlier claims by parents and alumni that the SS1 student allegedly collapsed and died after severe corporal punishment.

Recall that Maimuna’s death in June 2026 sparked outrage after reports emerged that she died on June 13, 2026, for arriving late to a prayer session.

The Abuja Chapter of the St. Louis Old Girls Association, SLOGA, had in a statement alleged that Maimuna was forced to kneel under the scorching sun for hours without water as punishment for lateness before she collapsed. She was rushed to a private hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

SLOGA had demanded an independent investigation, saying no school rule or act of discipline is worth a child’s life.

“If there was negligence, excessive punishment, or institutional failure, those responsible must face the law,” the association said, calling on the Kano State Government, Ministry of Education, Nigeria Police Force, and child-protection agencies to launch a transparent probe.

They also demanded the temporary suspension of any staff or students linked to the incident, unrestricted access for investigators and parents, and the public release of a timeline, names of staff involved, and official medical reports.

Beyond the case, SLOGA urged a statewide review of disciplinary practices, a ban on dangerous corporal punishment, and stronger child protection systems.

However, the government panel on Thursday cleared the school.

Submitting its findings to the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Faruk Ibrahim, Co-Chairman of the panel and Executive Secretary of the Private and Voluntary Institutions Management Board, Baba Abubakar Umar, said the investigation covered the school’s dormitory, clinic, and social and recreational facilities, and looked closely at the circumstances surrounding her sudden collapse.

According to Umar, the school notified the student’s parents immediately after she collapsed and sought medical help. She was first examined by clinic staff and later by a medical professional who was a relative of the family. Both assessments pointed to natural causes.

“The Committee found no evidence of abuse, beating, corporal punishment, mistreatment, or any other form of physical harm,” Umar stated.

“Available medical evidence did not indicate that her death was caused by any wrongdoing on the part of the school.”

Receiving the report, the SSG commiserated with the bereaved family and prayed for Allah’s forgiveness for the deceased, commending the committee for a diligent and objective job.

He said the panel was set up to establish the truth, ensure justice, and maintain public confidence, reaffirming government’s commitment to protecting the safety, welfare, and dignity of students across Kano.