No more flogging in Lagos State: Government reiterates ban on corporal punishment in schools
The Lagos State Government has reiterated its stance against corporal punishment in public schools, emphasizing counseling as a more effective corrective measure.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, reaffirmed that flogging students for indiscipline or other misbehavior remains strictly prohibited. According to him, this policy aims to prevent injuries, fainting episodes, or even fatalities that could arise from excessive punishment by teachers.
While corporal punishment is banned, Alli-Balogun noted that minor disciplinary actions such as kneeling, picking up litter, or cutting grass within the school premises may be applied as part of a structured behavioral reinforcement approach. “This is part of our positive reinforcement; it is a powerful tool for shaping behavior and encouraging desired outcomes,” he explained. He emphasized that the goal of counseling is not just to penalize but to help students understand the consequences of misbehavior and foster responsible conduct.
The commissioner also pointed to poor parental upbringing as a major contributor to student misconduct. He urged parents to take their responsibilities seriously and be more involved in their children’s development.
“As a government, we will continue to do our best to eradicate indiscipline and make the learning environment friendly for all,” he assured.
