A teacher in Lagos, Stella Nwadigo, who was arrested for assaulting a three-year-old pupil, appeared at the Ogba Magistrate Court on Thursday, where she pleaded not guilty to the charges against her. The case, which has drawn widespread public attention, involves Nwadigo slapping young Abayomi Michael at Christ-Mitots International School in Ikorodu, Lagos.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency provided an update on the proceedings via its official X.com handle. “Following the ongoing viral case of child abuse, all concerned parties appeared today, 9th January 2024, at the Ogba Magistrate Court. The matter was assigned to Magistrate M.O. Kusanu, and two charges were read to the suspect, to which she pled not guilty,” the agency disclosed.
Nwadigo’s defense counsel applied for bail during the hearing, and the court set the bail conditions at ₦200,000 with two verifiable sureties. However, the teacher was remanded in a correctional facility pending further proceedings. “The suspect has been remanded in a correctional facility, and the case is adjourned to the 18th of January 2024 for trial,” the agency added.
The case gained national attention after a video of the incident went viral. In the footage, Nwadigo is seen repeatedly slapping Abayomi while trying to teach him how to write the number six. The video sparked outrage across social media, with many calling for justice for the young boy.
In response to the public backlash, the management of Christ-Mitots International School suspended Nwadigo, describing her actions as unacceptable. Meanwhile, Abayomi was reportedly hospitalised following the traumatic experience.
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The incident has reignited discussions about child abuse and the treatment of pupils in schools. Many Nigerians have expressed their anger and called for stricter regulations to ensure the safety of children in educational institutions.
One concerned parent, who spoke anonymously, said, “It’s heartbreaking to see such cruelty in a place where our children should feel safe. We need accountability to prevent this from happening again.”
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency reaffirmed its commitment to seeking justice for Abayomi. “We will continue to follow this case to its conclusion. Child abuse has no place in our society, and those responsible must face the full weight of the law,” a spokesperson for the agency stated.
With the trial set to resume on January 18, 2024, all eyes remain on the legal proceedings as Nigerians await justice for the young boy. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability in schools to protect children from harm.