Christ Mitots School located in the Ikorodu area of Lagos has indefinitely suspended a teacher, Stella Nwadigo, caught on video assaulting a three-year-old pupil, Abayomi Michael, during a numeracy lesson.
A viral video online showed the teacher repeatedly smacking Abayomi, who was standing in front of her table.
The disturbing video sparked public outrage, leading to intervention by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) which arrested the teacher on Wednesday.
The school management, in a statement, condemned the teacher’s actions, describing them as unacceptable.
The institution assured the public that the teacher would remain suspended until the investigation concluded.
“We are aware of a deeply troubling incident involving one of our teachers and a student, which has been circulating on social media,” the statement reads.
“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 toward 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.
“In light of this incident, we are taking firm steps to ensure that such behaviour is never repeated. As such, we will be organizing mandatory training sessions for teachers to reinforce child protection protocols, emphasize positive disciplinary practices, and cultivate greater sensitivity in interactions with students.”