Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of a teacher, identified as Stella Nwadigo, aged 45, for allegedly physically abusing a 3-year-old pupil, Abayomi Michael, of Christ-Mitots International Nursery and Primary School in Ikorodu, Lagos State.
According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, the suspect was apprehended on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, shortly after committing the criminal act.
Adejobi, while addressing the incident, assured the public that justice would be served.
“This act of violence against a child is reprehensible. The suspect, Stella Nwadigo, was arrested immediately after the abuse was reported. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring that justice prevails in this case,” Adejobi stated.
Details surrounding the nature of the abuse have not been fully disclosed, but reports indicate that the victim sustained injuries and is receiving medical attention. Videos circulating on social media and spotted by our Reporter show the teacher slapping the child while tutoring him mathematics.
The incident has sparked public outrage, with advocacy groups and concerned citizens calling for strict measures to address child abuse in educational institutions and closure of the said school.
Christ-Mitots School management in a statement said the teacher has been suspended.
“As an institution that is deeply committed to fostering a culture of respect, care, and dignity, we are horrified by this incident and wish to make it unequivocally clear that such actions will not be tolerated. In response, the teacher involved has been suspended indefinitely while a thorough investigation is conducted. This immediate and decisive action reflects our zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct and our obligation to safeguard the safety and well-being of every child under our care.
“We extend our sincerest apologies to the student and their family. We have reached out to them personally to express our regret, offer our support, and ensure that their needs are fully addressed during this time,” the statement read in part.
Meanwhile, the police have commenced investigations, and Stella Nwadigo is expected to face charges in court.
Child rights organisations have urged authorities to strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to prevent future occurrences of such incidents.
This case adds to the growing concerns about child safety in schools and highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect vulnerable children.
