The Lagos State Government has invoked the Child Rights Act and the Lagos State Policy on Safeguarding and Child Protection following the assault of a three-year-old pupil, Master Abayomi Michael, by his teacher, Mrs. Stella Nwadigbo, at Christ Mitots Nursery and Primary School, Ikorodu.
In a viral video dated January 8, 2025, Mrs. Nwadigbo was seen repeatedly slapping the toddler for struggling with a lesson. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and prompted immediate action from the government.
On January 9, 2025, the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education visited the school, which was approved in 2010. However, the school was found to be partially shut down, with pupils asked to stay home until Monday, January 13, 2025.
Explaining the closure, the Head Teacher, Mrs. B. Adeyeri, speaking on behalf of the Proprietor, Rev. (Mrs.) O.N. Olutoye, stated, “The decision was made to protect other pupils from harassment and uncontrollable visits from the public, who have been storming the school for pictures and videos.”
Meanwhile, the victim, Master Abayomi Michael, has been referred for medical attention. Mrs. Nwadigbo has been arrested and remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Facility pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution.
The Lagos State Government has emphasized that Mrs. Nwadigbo’s actions violate the Child Rights Act and the Lagos State Policy on Safeguarding and Child Protection, both of which carry severe penalties under the law.
Further investigations are scheduled for Monday, January 13, 2025. The Ministry has summoned key parties, including the school proprietor, the head teacher, the victim’s mother (who is also a teacher at the school), and other pupils, to provide their accounts.
The Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Kayode Sutton, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to justice. “This case serves as a reminder of the zero tolerance for any form of child abuse in Lagos State,” he said.
The public eagerly awaits the outcome of this investigation, as the government moves to enforce its child protection policies and ensure justice for the young victim.
