Lagos School Expels Students, Sanctions Staff Over Smoking Clip
A storm of controversy has hit Excel College, Ejigbo, after viral videos of students smoking and drinking forced the school to take drastic action — expelling the culprits and sanctioning housemasters for negligence.
The footage, which spread quickly on social media, showed senior students engaging in what has been described as “reckless behaviour” on campus.
The incident sparked outrage among parents and education stakeholders, prompting urgent inquiries into how such misconduct slipped through the school’s supervision.
Two Incidents, One Crisis
According to the School’s Director, Dr. Dele Oke, the scandal stemmed from two separate incidents. The first occurred on May 11, 2025, during a birthday party where a parent supplied snacks and non-alcoholic wine.
Though harmless, the video of the gathering was misconstrued online as an alcohol party.
But the second, more troubling episode happened during the April 2025 Holiday Extension Classes, when graduating SS3 students were filmed playing a smoking game called “pass and puff.” That video, once leaked, set off a public outcry.
Swift Disciplinary Action
In response, the school expelled the students from the hostel and barred them from taking part in the graduation ceremony.
They were later allowed to sit for their NECO examinations after showing remorse and following parental appeals.
Housemasters responsible for supervision were not spared. They were issued warning letters and ordered to forfeit their term allowances.
Dr. Oke defended the school’s action, stressing: “Excel College stands for excellence with integrity. We will not condone indiscipline, no matter who is involved.”
Parents and Officials React
Some parents applauded the school’s firmness. “It was painful, but necessary. This will serve as a lesson to others,” said Mrs. Tola Adebayo, mother of a student.
Others, however, pushed for a more balanced approach. “Expulsion alone doesn’t solve the problem. These children need mentoring and rehabilitation,” argued Mr. Segun Oladipo, another parent.
The Lagos State Ministry of Education also weighed in, commending the school for its transparency.
An official told Global Mirror News: “We are satisfied that the college acted decisively. Schools must remain safe and disciplined learning environments.”
Rebuilding Trust
In the wake of the scandal, Excel College has rolled out reforms — relocating the SS3 reading room to a more visible area, tightening hostel visitation rules, and expanding counselling sessions to address peer pressure and bullying.
All reports and disciplinary records have been submitted to the Lagos State Government, the Ministries of Education and Youth & Social Development, and the police.
As the new session approaches, the school has met with parents, teachers, and hostel staff to restore confidence and reassure stakeholders that such lapses will not be tolerated again.
