The tragic death of two-year-old Winnie Akakue at Wisdom Gate International School, Eligbolo, Rivers State, has sparked widespread outrage, with her family demanding justice and transparency.
Winnie reportedly died on March 17, 2026, under circumstances the family describes as suspicious. According to her father, Dr. Iasuaka Akakue, the school claimed she was asleep in class when a bookshelf allegedly collapsed on her. A preliminary autopsy briefing indicated she suffered a fractured skull.
However, the family has raised serious concerns about how the incident was handled. Dr. Akakue said they were informed only after the school had already taken the child to two medical facilities, with doctors at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital confirming she was brought in dead.
He also alleged that the scene of the incident was tampered with before any independent assessment could be carried out, claiming the bookshelf was moved and the area cleaned. The family further accused certain individuals of pressuring them into a quick burial and an out-of-court settlement.
Dr. Akakue expressed dissatisfaction with the police investigation, alleging bias and a lack of thoroughness. He also disputed claims that the family failed to request the autopsy report, stating they were assured they would be contacted once it was ready.
“We just want justice for our daughter and to know exactly what happened,” he said, adding that the family is preparing to take legal action.
Winnie’s mother, Mrs. Chinyere Akakue, recounted receiving conflicting information from the school. She said she was initially told her daughter was alive, only to arrive and find her lifeless.
“It’s been weeks without my child. We’re still in shock,” she said, describing the emotional toll on the family and Winnie’s siblings.
Following the incident, a legal practitioner, Chetam Nwala, called for the school to be shut down pending a full investigation, stressing the need for accountability.
In response, the Rivers State Government ordered the immediate closure of the school and launched an independent review. The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to enforcing strict safety standards.
The school management, while expressing deep sorrow, maintained that it acted promptly and has been cooperating with authorities. It also stated that internal reviews are ongoing to strengthen safety measures.
Despite the closure, the school’s proprietress and some parents have appealed to the government to reconsider, citing the disruption to pupils’ education and the strain on families. However, authorities insist the school will remain closed until investigations are concluded.