A teacher, Stella Nwadigo, was arrested for slapping a three-year-old pupil, Abayomi Michael, during a writing lesson at Christ-Mitots International School in Isawo, Ikorodu, Lagos State. The incident has led to the teacher’s arrest and calls for stricter oversight of schools.
The short but shocking video, which surfaced online on Wednesday, captured Nwadigo repeatedly slapping the young boy for allegedly failing to write the number six as instructed. The footage triggered an avalanche of condemnation, with Nigerians demanding justice and immediate action against the teacher and the school.
Teacher Arrested, Investigation Underway
Confirming the arrest, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (LSDSVA), said in an interview, “The teacher has been arrested and is currently in police custody. The police will commence an investigation, and we hope she will be charged in court after the outcome of their findings.”
The Lagos State Ministry of Education also assured the public that the incident had been escalated to relevant authorities. Kayode Sutton, the ministry’s spokesperson, said, “The matter has been forwarded to the appropriate quarters for further investigation.”
Child Hospitalised, Advocates Demand Justice
The abuse reportedly left young Michael requiring medical attention. Ebenezer Omejalile, Chief Operating Officer of Advocates for Children and Vulnerable Persons Network, confirmed that the child had been hospitalised.
“The perpetrator has not only physically assaulted the child but dehumanised him entirely. Several slaps to the right ear may damage his eardrum, potentially causing deafness,” Omejalile said.
He also highlighted the long-term psychological impact of the abuse, stating, “This child needs thorough medical and psychological treatment, as well as efforts to rebuild his self-esteem. The perpetrator must face the full wrath of the law to serve as a deterrent to others.”
Omejalile called on the Lagos State Ministry of Education’s Quality Assurance Department to investigate further, urging one-on-one interviews with other pupils to determine if similar incidents have occurred.
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Outrage Across Social Media
The video has ignited widespread condemnation on social media, with many Nigerians expressing their disgust and demanding accountability. A prominent social commentator, known as VeryDarkMan, threatened to lead a protest if the school failed to take action.
“To the owners of Christ-Mitots, you have just 24 hours to explain why the teacher treated that child in such a way,” he said. “Imagine if he had fallen, and God forbid, they would likely invent a story about him falling while playing.”
Another concerned citizen, C J Mordi, took to social media, stating, “Schools should be safe spaces for children. This incident is a wake-up call for parents and regulators.”
Government Pledges Action
The LSDSVA, in a statement on its verified X.com handle, reiterated its commitment to child safety. The agency urged anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward via its toll-free hotline or social media platforms.
“Institutions of learning should be safe, warm, and protective environments for all children in their care,” the statement read. “The state government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of every child by enforcing strict regulations, holding offenders accountable, and promoting a zero-tolerance policy for abuse in any form.”
What’s Next?
Authorities have pledged a thorough investigation, and the teacher is expected to be charged in court. Meanwhile, advocates and parents are calling for greater oversight of schools to prevent similar incidents.
As Nigerians await the outcome of the investigation, this case has underscored the urgent need for stricter measures to protect children in schools and ensure accountability for those entrusted with their care.