In a case that has captured national attention, a 45-year-old teacher named Stella Nwadigbo was remanded to custody by an Ogba Magistrate Court in Lagos, Nigeria, after a video surfaced online showing her physically assaulting a three-year-old pupil. The incident, which took place at Christ Mitots School in Ikorodu, involved Nwadigbo repeatedly slapping the young child for struggling to write the number six during a numeracy lesson.
The video, which went viral on Wednesday, sparked immediate outrage across social media platforms, leading to swift action by law enforcement. Nwadigbo was arrested and charged with indecent treatment and assault of a child, under sections 135 and 172 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015. She appeared in court on Thursday, where she pleaded not guilty to the charges but was remanded in the Kirikiri Correctional facility until February 18, 2025, when her case is scheduled for continuation of hearing.
The Lagos State Police Command, through its spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest and subsequent remand, emphasizing the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors alike. “The suspect has since been remanded to Kirikiri Correctional facility till February 18, 2025, when the case comes up for continuation of hearing,” Hundeyin stated.
The school’s management also reacted to the incident by announcing the indefinite suspension of Nwadigbo pending the outcome of the investigation. They have introduced a “confidential whistleblowing system” to encourage the prompt reporting of similar inappropriate behaviors in the future, signaling a move towards stricter oversight of staff conduct.
This case has reignited discussions on child safety in educational settings and the ethical responsibilities of educators. Public opinion has been overwhelmingly critical of the teacher’s actions, with many calling for not only legal accountability but also systemic changes to prevent such incidents.
The pupil, identified as Abayomi Michael, received medical attention following the assault, highlighting the immediate concern for his wellbeing post-incident.
Lagos Teacher Remanded After Viral Video of Assault on Pupil
— Caleb Qwofi Right (@calebeshun) January 10, 2025
In a case that has captured national attention, a 45-year-old teacher named Stella Nwadigbo was remanded to custody by an Ogba Magistrate Court in Lagos, Nigeria, after a video surfaced online showing her physically… pic.twitter.com/nyacwbQi1Q