Late Sylvester Oromoni Jnr laid to rest, father, Falana vows to pursue justice

The father of the late 12-year-old Dowen College pupil, Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, who was allegedly tortured by senior students has vowed to continue the fight for justice, not just for his late son, but particularly on behalf of students facing bullying in Nigerian educational institutions.

Mr Sylvester Oromoni Snr stated this during a poignant ceremony held at the family compound in Ogbe-Ijoh, Warri, in Delta State to lay late scholar, Sylvester Oromoni Jnr to rest after two years of battle to bring those behind his tragic death to book.

Addressing journalists during the burial that attracted notable human rights figures across the country, Mr. Oromoni expressed the family’s determination to ensure justice not only for their son but for all students who have faced assaults within school premises.

According to him, the decision to bury their son came after confirming that the Lagos State inquiry into the incident was progressing as expected.

Speaking also at the event, renowned human rights lawyer, Chief Femi Falana (SAN) commended the Oromoni family’s tenacity in seeking justice and urged parents and school management to prioritize the welfare and safety of students.

The human rights lawyer while acknowledging the time justice might take to be served, he assured that justice would be delivered on this case to serve as a deterrent to other bullies.

Falana, who is also the family lawyer, noted that the young boy would be remembered for touching the lives of the family, the school, and his colleagues.

“We are here to celebrate a great Nigerian whose life was cut short. His short life was so eventful according to his biography that was just read to us now.

“The short life of Solomon cannot be compared with that of Methuselah,” Falana said. “Sylvester touched the lives of his teachers, friends, and fellow students, and we should be reminded and ask ourselves what will be remembered for after this life.

“We must try as much as possible to rededicate our lives to God almighty. I must thank the parents of Sylvester Oromoni Jnr for standing and demanding justice for their son.”

The officiating Minister, Ven. Revd Goodluck Bayagbon of God’s Grace Ministry, Warri, speaking during the burial ceremony, encourages Christians to lead exemplary lives. He celebrated Sylvester Oromoni Jnr as a devout believer who left a positive impact on those around him.

The Oromoni family, clad in somber attire, stood resolute in their quest for justice. The burial became a symbolic event, uniting the community in demanding answers and reforms to ensure the safety of students in educational institutions.

Sylvester, a bright young boy with a passion for engineering and sports, had his promising future cut short by an alleged attack from fellow students. The community, friends, and well-wishers gathered to pay their respects, turning the ceremony into a call for accountability and justice.

Despite the passage of time, the pain of Sylvester’s loss remained fresh, and the family’s determination echoed beyond their community. The tragedy turned into a rallying point against bullying and violence in schools, prompting a united demand for reforms.

Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, born on December 4, 2009, tragically passed away on November 30, 2021, allegedly due to torture by senior students at Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos State.

The family, dignitaries, and well-wishers gathered on Saturday, January 27, 2024, to bid farewell and mourn the untimely demise of the young scholar.