Excel College, Ejigbo, Lagos State, has confirmed two incidents captured in viral videos showing students drinking wine and smoking within its hostel premises, while clarifying the circumstances and disciplinary measures taken.
In a statement released on Saturday and signed by the school director, Dr. Dele Oke, the management explained that the first video — recorded on May 11 — showed a parent bringing non-alcoholic wine and snacks to celebrate her son’s last birthday in secondary school. The moment, filmed on the parent’s phone, was later shared in a class WhatsApp group.
The second incident, according to the school, took place in April 2025 during Holiday Extension Classes when recently graduated SS3 students were caught experimenting with smoking in a game called “pass and puff.”
Following an internal investigation, Excel College expelled the students from the hostel and barred them from participating in the 2025 graduation ceremony. However, they were later allowed to sit for the NECO examinations after expressing remorse and signing undertakings with their parents.
The school also sanctioned housemasters for negligence, issuing them warning letters and withholding their termly allowances.
Dr. Oke said the management has taken steps to prevent future incidents, including relocating the SS3 reading room to a more open space, increasing staff monitoring and walk rounds, enforcing visiting hours, and strengthening counselling sessions.
Excel College confirmed that it is cooperating fully with the Lagos State Government, the Ministries of Education and Youth & Social Development, and the Lagos State Police Command, providing documents and witness statements to ensure transparency.
“All documentary evidence, including expulsion and warning letters, have been submitted to the relevant authorities,” Oke stated, adding that the parents and PTA executives have been engaged to clarify the school’s actions.
The school reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of discipline and integrity.
