Teacher, 45, Remanded Over Assault On 3-Year Old Pupil Inside School 

MICHAEL AKINOLA 

A 45-year old teacher, Stella Nwadigbo of Christ Mitots School in Ikorodu, Lagos State, has been remanded in custody at the correctional center at Kirikiri town for allegedly assaulting a three year old pupil inside the school. 

P.M.EXPRESS reports that it was the order of the Magistrate Court sitting in Ogba presided by Mrs. O. Kusanu, who ordered the remand of Stella Nwadigbo, 45, in custody over the alleged assault on the victim.

The teacher was arrested and charged before the Court following the viral video showing her subjecting the child to degrading treatment during lesson, which sparked public outrage.

Thus, the Family Support Unit (FSU) of the Ikorodu Police Division arrested the teacher and transferred her to the Gender Unit at the Command Headquarters for further investigation.

After interrogation, the Police found her culpable and consequently charged her for assault under the Criminal Laws of the State.

However, she pleaded not guilty when she was arraigned.

The prosecutor, Supol Akeem Raji, then asked the Court to give a date for hearing since she pleaded not guilty to enable the Police to prove that she actually committed the alleged offence.

The Presiding Magistrate, Mrs. Kusanu, granted her bail with two sureties, who must show evidence of means of livelihood and tax payment while addresses will be verified by the Court.

The matter was adjourned till 18th February, 2025, for mention while the defendant was remanded in custody pending when she will perfect her bail conditions.

Meanwhile, the victim has been taken to a medical facility for adequate medical attention.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olanrewaju Ishola, has  commended Nigerians for promptly alerting the Police to the situation. He assured them of the ever-readiness of the Command to respond quickly and appropriately to situations towards ensuring the safety and security of residents in the State.

The management of Christ Mitots School, where the incident happened, has issued a public apology to the child’s family and announced the indefinite suspension of the teacher.

“We are aware of a deeply troubling incident involving one of our teachers and a pupil, which has been circulating on social media. The management of the school will implement mandatory training for teachers on child protection and positive disciplinary practices as well as a whistle-blowing system to report inappropriate behaviour.”

“In the light of this incident, we are taking firm steps to ensure 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.” the management stated.