Sylvester Oromoni, Dowen College Student Finally Laid To Rest Since November 2021

Sylvester Oromoni Jr., a 12-year-old student at Dowen College in Lekki, Lagos State, who reportedly suffered torture from senior students, was laid to rest on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the family’s compound in Ogbe-Ijoh, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta, after a two-year battle for justice. Born on December 4, 2009, Sylvester tragically passed away on November 30, 2021, under controversial circumstances allegedly involving torture by senior students at Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos State.

Late Sylvester reportedly endured torture at the hands of senior students at the college who purportedly sought to induct him into a cult. Despite widespread condemnation, nationwide protests by civil society groups and women, and contentious debates, Sylvester’s death has yet to yield any satisfactory outcomes even two years later, with allegations of delay tactics by certain officials of the Lagos State Government.

At this burial on Saturday which attracted several dignitaries from far and near, emotions ran high as family members, friends and well wishes were seen in tears, crying and mourning the untimely demise of Sylvester.

The family had on Monday announced the burial of their son, stating, “As a family grappling with the profound sorrow brought about by this inexplicable loss we have chosen to bid farewell to Sylvester on Saturday, January 27, 2024 with final rites to be conducted at Ogbe-Ijaw Warri Kingdom, Delta state. Exactly two years ago, precisely on November, 30, 2021, the death of our 12-year-old son, Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, a pupil of Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos State, was announced in controversial circumstances, after he was tortured to death by some senior students who wanted to initiate him into a cult group and till date we as family is yet to get justice in the matter.

“Sylvester, born on December 4, 2009, met a devastating end on November 30, 2021, succumbing to injuries inflicted in a harrowing assault by fellow students. Before his untimely demise, Sylvester was renowned for his exceptional intellect and maturity beyond his years. A young mind brimming with potential, he demonstrated remarkable initiative and an extraordinary sense of humor, endearing him to those fortunate enough to cross paths with him. Sylvester’s insatiable passion for knowledge, particularly in fields of computer science, programming, electrical science, and his special interest in football set him apart.

“His absence has left an irreplaceable void in our lives as a family and the lives of those who hold him dear, and his legacy will endure through the indelible memories of the profound impact he made on those around him. As we continue to mourn our son, we as a family implore everyone to honour Sylvester’s memory by reflecting on the bright spirit that enriched their lives and celebrate the intellect that radiated from his young mind. As the community mourns the loss of this promising scholar, we will continue to demand justice for our beloved son who was murdered in cold blood by fellow students,” the statement stated.

In a homily taken from the book of Isaiah 57:1-2, titled ‘Forever With The Lord’ Ven. Revd Goodluck Bayagbon of the God’s Grace Ministry, Warri, charged christians to live a life worthy of emulation and strive to be heavenly candidates.

While describing the deceased as a true believer in Christ, the cleric noted that “Sylvester Oromoni Jnr has gone to rest with the Lord and free from all evil and calamity of the world. We are not here to weep and mourn over Sylvester but to celebrate a great man, a young man that God almighty loves so much. Sylvester left an indelible mark in the hearts of all men that must be emulated.