Abayomi Michael, a three-year-old pupil of Christ-Mitots School in the Isawo area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, who was recently physically abused by his teacher, Stella Nwadigbo, has been awarded a scholarship covering his education up to university level.
The scholarship was generously offered by Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd.
Nwadigbo was captured on video assaulting Abayomi during a numeracy lesson. The viral footage, which surfaced online, showed the teacher repeatedly hitting the boy as he stood in front of her desk.
The disturbing video sparked public outrage, leading to Nwadigbo’s arrest and arraignment in court.
At a ceremony organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development on Thursday at Alausa to formalize the scholarship agreement, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, commended the gesture by Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd.
“The state government cannot do it alone. We are always ready to partner with any individual or group that can assist us in alleviating the burden on our citizens.
“We appreciate Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd. for this noble gesture and encourage others to follow suit,” Ogunlende said.
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Pharm. (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, expressed concern over the abuse, stating, “We were deeply disturbed by the physical abuse of Michael Abayomi.
“To ensure it was not ignored, we immediately took appropriate action to secure justice and provide the necessary medical care for the child. We are pleased today that the situation has turned into a positive outcome.”
Ayorinde Ejioye, co-founder of Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd., emphasised that the company was moved to act, recognizing that such abuse could happen to any child.
Additionally, Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd. provided a fully furnished two-bedroom flat to Mrs. Nike Okunlaya, Abayomi’s mother and a widow, as part of their support for the family.