A High Court in Abuja has awarded ₦100 million in damages against Louisville Girls Secondary School, Gwagwalada, over the tragic death of a 9-year-old student, Kamzie Ikpeatusim, due to the school’s negligence.
In a ruling delivered by Justice Sylvanus Oriji on Tuesday, the court found the school liable for failing to provide proper medical care to the young boarder, who fell seriously ill shortly after resuming in September 2017. Kamzie became critically sick by October 2 and died just days later.
Her father, Mr. Ifeanyi Ikpeatusim, filed the suit (CV/1738/18), alleging that the school’s failure to act swiftly and adequately on his daughter’s health concerns directly led to her untimely death.
Justice Oriji stated that the evidence showed a clear case of negligence on the part of the school and its staff.
“The claimant established his allegations of negligence against the school.
There is no amount of money that can bring back the child to life,” he said.
Beyond the ₦100 million in general damages, the judge also granted an additional ₦300,000 as cost of the suit and placed a 10% interest on the total judgment sum, effective from April 8 until full payment is made.
The court acknowledged that although no monetary compensation could restore the life lost, the case has sparked meaningful change. One such outcome is the improved school sickbay, now staffed with doctors visiting twice daily — a development the judge commended.
While Mr. Ikpeatusim requested the school name a structure after Kamzie in her memory, the court ruled that the health improvements already made serve as a fitting tribute.
“The court is of the opinion that the improvement in the sickbay, ensuring doctors are available twice daily, is in honour of Kamzie, as part of reforms recommended by her family,” the judge added.
“The claimant should take solace in the fact that Kamzie has been honoured by the school through these improvements.”
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