The Lagos State Government has invoked the Child Rights Act and the Lagos State Policy on Safeguarding and Child Protection against Mrs. Stella Nwadigbo, a teacher at Christ Mitots Nursery and Primary School, Ikorodu, for the alleged assault of a three-year-old pupil, Master Abayomi Michael.
In a widely circulated video from Wednesday, January 8, 2025, Nwadigbo was seen aggressively smacking the toddler in the face multiple times during a lesson. The video triggered public outrage and prompted swift action from the authorities.
The Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA), under the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, conducted a fact-finding visit to the school on Thursday, January 9, 2025. During the visit, it was discovered that the school, approved in 2010, had been partially shut down, with pupils asked to stay home until Monday, January 13, 2025.
The Head Teacher, Mrs. B. Adeyeri, speaking on behalf of the school’s proprietor, Rev. (Mrs.) O.N. Olutoye, explained that the temporary closure was necessary to protect other pupils from harassment and to manage the influx of visitors seeking pictures and videos of the school.
Meanwhile, the victim, Master Abayomi Michael, has been referred for medical attention. Nwadigbo has been arrested and remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Facility. She will remain in custody until February 18, 2025, pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The Deputy Director of Public Affairs for the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Kayode Sutton, confirmed that Nwadigbo’s actions violated both the Child Rights Act and the Lagos State Policy on Safeguarding and Child Protection. These are punishable offenses under the law.
Further investigations are set to continue on Monday, January 13, 2025. The school’s proprietor, the head teacher, the victim, his mother—who is also a teacher at the school—and other pupils will be required to provide additional information to the authorities.
The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to upholding the rights and protection of children, stressing that offenders will face the full weight of the law.
For information on Press Releases, Photos, Promotional Events and Adverts, Please message us on WhatsApp via (+234) 09052129258, 08124662170 or send an email to: info@educeleb.com.
