Teacher Remanded for Assaulting 3-Year-Old Pupil in Lagos

A Lagos teacher, Stella Nwadigbo, has been remanded at Kirikiri Correctional Facility for allegedly assaulting a three-year-old pupil during a numeracy lesson. 

Nwadigbo, 45, who was caught on video slapping the minor, was arraigned on Thursday, January 9, 2025, before Magistrate Court 1, Ogba in Ikeja. 

The viral footage prompted widespread outrage and reignited concerns over child safety in schools.

Confirming the development, Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said, “The suspect has since been remanded to Kirikiri Correctional Facility till February 18, 2025, when the case will be heard further.” 

He revealed that the teacher was arrested on Wednesday, January 8, by the Family Support Unit of the Ikorodu Police Division, after which the case was transferred to the Gender Unit of the Command Headquarters for thorough investigation.

The three-year-old victim is currently receiving medical attention at a healthcare facility. The Commissioner of Police, CP Olanrewaju Ishola, praised Nigerians for promptly alerting law enforcement about the incident, assuring the public of the Command's commitment to child safety. “We remain dedicated to ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors in Lagos State,” he stated.

In response to the public outcry, Christ Mitots School, where the incident occurred, has suspended the teacher indefinitely. The school announced the introduction of a whistleblowing system for reporting inappropriate behavior and reaffirmed its commitment to child protection. 

“We take this incident seriously and will cooperate fully with the investigation to ensure justice is served,” the school management stated.