The management of Christ-Mitots International School in Isawo, Ikorodu, Lagos State, has suspended a teacher, Stella Nwadigo, following allegations of mistreating and physically abusing a three-year-old boy, Abayomi Michael.
The incident came to light after a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) by a user, Oyindamola (#dammiedammie35), showed the teacher slapping the child. The video, which quickly went viral, sparked public outrage and led to calls for justice.
On Wednesday, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) confirmed Nwadigo’s arrest. In a statement, the DSVA assured the public that the matter is under investigation and reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare and safety of children in the state.
The school management has also pledged full cooperation with the authorities, stating that they are taking the issue seriously and will implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“We appreciate everyone who brought the disturbing incident of a teacher who was recorded physically abusing a 3-year-old boy to our attention.
“We are pleased to inform the public that the teacher in question has been arrested by Owutu FSU, and an investigation has commenced in earnest,” the statement read, among others
On Thursday, the school management announced Nwadigo’s suspension while, describing development as a “troubling incident,” saying the teacher’s act is “contrary” to the school’s values and principles, The Cable reports.
“We are aware of a deeply troubling incident involving one of our teachers and a student, which has been circulating on social media,” the school’s statement reads in part.
“The video shows a teacher engaging in the physical discipline of a student in a manner that is completely unacceptable and contrary to the values and principles of our school. As an institution deeply committed to fostering a culture of respect, care, and dignity, we are horrified by this incident and wish to make 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 towards 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, after cur support, and ensure that their needs are fully addressed during this time.”
The management pledged its commitment to “ensure that such behaviour is never repeated. As such, we will be organising mandatory training sessions for teachers to reinforce child protection protocols, emphasise positive disciplinary practices and cultivate greater sensitivity in interactions with students.
“Additionally, we have introduced a confidential whistle-blowing system to encourage the prompt reporting of inappropriate behaviour.
“We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as we work to address this matter responsibly and comprehensively.”
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