An autopsy has confirmed that 4-year-old Miguel Ovoke, a student at Brickhall School in Abuja, died from choking on a piece of meat from his lunch. The incident happened on April 24, 2024, during the school lunch break.
Miguel began choking on meat in his meal of rice, stew, plantain, and assorted meat. Despite immediate emergency efforts by staff and a certified nurse, they could not clear his airway. He was rushed to Excel Specialist Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. The hospital confirmed the cause of death as asphyxiation.
The school promptly informed Miguel’s parents and conducted an autopsy at the National Hospital with all relevant parties present. The autopsy confirmed that the piece of meat caused Miguel’s choking.
Miguel’s parents have accepted the incident as an unavoidable tragedy. Brickhall School emphasized that they awaited a confirmed autopsy report before making any public statements about the cause of death.
In memory of Miguel, the school closed for eight days and dedicated an early years resource room to him. They also plan to support a foundation established by his parents in his name.
The school expressed their condolences to Miguel’s family and friends, hoping for their comfort in this difficult time.
Victoria Ibiama
