#JusticeForSylvester suspects should be freed - officials

The Lagos State government in Nigeria has ordered police to release the suspects held over the death of 12-year-old Sylvester Oromoni Junior.

The suspects included five students and five members of the school’s staff.

The state government cited inadequate evidence to substantiate the allegations of murder against the students and negligence against the staff members. 

It said it was acting on the advice of the director of public prosecution (DPP).

In a statement Sylvester’s family accused the state government of conspiracy.

He died last November after efforts to save his life failed. 

He was allegedly attacked by five of his senior classmates for refusing to join a cult.

In December the state government ordered the closure of the school. 

The family’s lawyer, Femi Falana, has called the decision “escapist and hasty” given that the chief coroner of Lagos State has ordered an inquest into the circumstances surrounding Sylvester’s death. 

The inquest, which began last month, has been adjourned until 15 January.

This article originally appeared on BBC News

Photo: Twitter/Perrie