The family of Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, the 12-year-old boy who died after being tortured by senior students of Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos State, in a cult initiation attempt, has finally buried their son.
The burial took place on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the family compound in Ogbe-Ijoh, Warri Kingdom, Delta State, with the attendance of relatives, friends and sympathizers.
The family had earlier issued a statement on Monday, announcing their decision to bid farewell to their son, who was born on December 4, 2009, and died on November 30, 2021, under mysterious circumstances.
The statement read: “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 death of Sylvester sparked outrage and protests across the country, as civil society groups and women demanded justice and accountability from the school authorities and the police.
The case is still under investigation, as the suspects are yet to be prosecuted.