A disturbing video showing a teacher, Stella Nwadigo, at Christ-Mitots International School in Isawo, Ikorodu, Lagos State, physically assaulting a three-year-old pupil, Abayomi Michael, has sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria. The video, which went viral on Wednesday, captured Nwadigo repeatedly slapping the young child during a lesson for not writing as instructed, igniting demands for her prosecution and an investigation into the school’s practices.
Arrest and Investigation Confirmed
The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (LSDSVA), Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, confirmed Nwadigo’s arrest during a phone interview with Hobnob News. “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,” Vivour-Adeniyi stated.
In a separate statement shared on the agency’s verified social media platforms, LSDSVA reiterated its commitment to protecting children in educational institutions. “Institutions of learning should be safe, warm, and protective environments for all children in their care. The state government remains committed to enforcing strict regulations, holding offenders accountable, and promoting a zero-tolerance policy for abuse in any form.”
Public Outcry and Calls for Accountability
The video has drawn sharp criticism from Nigerians, including prominent social commentators. In the footage, Nwadigo is seen berating and physically assaulting Abayomi as he struggled to write the number six. The act, described by many as cruel and dehumanizing, has raised serious concerns about the safety of children in schools.
A well-known activist and social commentator, VeryDarkMan, expressed his outrage in a widely shared video, threatening to lead a protest at the school if swift action was not taken. “To the owners of Christ-Mitots, you have just 24 hours to explain why the teacher treated that child in such a way. I’ll bring a crowd with me and urge Nigerians to pay attention to this case so that incidents like this stop. Imagine if that child had fallen; the story could have been twisted,” he said, alleging that Nwadigo may have previously assaulted other pupils.
Hospitalization and Child Protection Advocacy
Following the assault, Abayomi was hospitalized for injuries sustained during the incident. Ebenezer Omejalile, Chief Operating Officer at Advocates for Children and Vulnerable Persons Network, confirmed the hospitalization and emphasized the severity of the situation. “The perpetrator has not only physically assaulted the child but has dehumanized him. Several slaps to the right ear may cause permanent damage, including hearing loss,” Omejalile told Hobnob News.
He called for a thorough medical evaluation and psychological support for Abayomi, as well as interventions to restore his self-esteem. Omejalile also urged the Lagos State Ministry of Education’s Quality Assurance Department to conduct a detailed investigation, including interviews with other pupils, to uncover the extent of Nwadigo’s actions.
Government Response and Assurance
The Lagos State Ministry of Education confirmed that the matter had been escalated for further investigation. Spokesperson Kayode Sutton stated that the case had been forwarded to relevant departments to ensure appropriate action is taken.
Meanwhile, LSDSVA encouraged anyone with additional information about the case to come forward. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and maintaining the integrity of educational environments across the state.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
With Nwadigo in custody, police investigations are underway, and the case is expected to be charged to court. Advocacy groups and child protection networks have vowed to monitor the proceedings closely to ensure justice is served.
This incident underscores the urgent need for stringent regulations in schools to prevent abuse and protect vulnerable children. As Nigerians rally for justice, the spotlight remains on Christ-Mitots International School and the broader education system to uphold safety and accountability for every child under their care.
Hobnob News
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