Public concern has grown following the death of 12-year-old Federal Government College Ikot Ekpene student, Ufokobong Edwin Godwin, who reportedly died after an alleged bullying incident involving a senior student.

The Junior Secondary School student was said to have been assaulted in the hostel by a Senior Secondary School (SS3) student shortly before the Easter break after he reportedly declined a request to share his provisions during examinations.

A student who lived in the same hostel said the senior allegedly struck Ufokobong on the neck, causing him to lose consciousness. He was rushed to hospital, later regained consciousness and returned to school before the holiday without his parents reportedly being informed of the incident.

According to accounts from family sources, the boy began complaining of neck and throat pain after returning home for the Easter break. His condition later worsened and he was taken to hospital, where he died early Easter Sunday.

Family members said medical personnel indicated the death was linked to complications associated with blood clots around the neck area.

The incident has triggered wider concerns among parents about alleged cases of bullying in the school. Some parents claimed similar incidents had occurred previously, including a case last year in which a student reportedly sustained serious head injuries after being struck by a senior and was treated at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.

Another parent also alleged repeated cases of intimidation and punishment of junior students in both boys’ and girls’ hostels, calling for stronger disciplinary oversight by school authorities.

The family of the deceased has appealed to the Federal Government to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure accountability.

Speaking briefly, the boy’s father said the family was seeking justice. “I cannot talk now. I am calling on the Federal Government to intervene for justice,” he said.