Teacher Remanded for Assaulting Three-Year-Old Pupil in Lagos

By NIGPOST Reporter

A 45-year-old teacher, Stella Nwadigo, has been remanded by the Ogba Chief Magistrate Court for allegedly assaulting a three-year-old pupil at Christ-Mitos Primary School in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State.

The incident, which occurred on January 7, 2025, came to light when a viral video showed Nwadigo slapping the toddler multiple times for failing to learn how to write numbers quickly. The footage sparked public outrage, leading to her arrest.

During the court hearing, the police prosecutor, Supol Akeem Raji, stated that Nwadigo inflicted injuries on the face of the young pupil, Abayomi Michael, causing his face to swell. The charges against her contravene Sections 135 and 172 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.

Nwadigo pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the court granted her bail in the sum of N200,000, with two sureties in like sum, who must be gainfully employed.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that Nwadigo was remanded at the Kirikiri correctional facility until February 18, 2025, when the case will continue. The victim has been taken to a medical facility for proper care.

Following the incident, the school suspended Nwadigo indefinitely and condemned her actions, stating that it does not tolerate such behaviour. The management expressed deep regret for the incident and assured the public of a thorough investigation.

The school also reached out to the victim’s family, offering an apology and promising to implement mandatory child protection training for staff. Additionally, a whistleblowing system has been introduced to encourage prompt reporting of any misconduct.

In a statement, the school emphasized its commitment to providing a safe environment for all students and reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on abuse.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency confirmed the teacher’s not guilty plea and reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice. The public has been urged to remain patient as the case progresses.

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