Lagos Teacher Arraigned for Assaulting 3-Year-Old Pupil
Stella Nwadigbo, a 46-year-old teacher from Ikorodu, Lagos State, was arraigned in an Ikeja Chief Magistrates’ Court on Thursday after being caught in a viral video assaulting a three-year-old pupil. The incident occurred on January 7 at Christ Mitot School, Ikorodu, where Nwadigbo was filmed slapping and hitting the young boy while attempting to teach him to write numerals.
The prosecutor, ASP Raji Akeem, stated that the teacher’s actions violated Sections 135 and 172 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015, which pertain to assault and causing grievous bodily harm. Despite the video evidence, Nwadigbo pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The Chief Magistrate, Mrs. O. Kushanu, granted the teacher bail set at N200,000, with two sureties in like sum. The case was adjourned until February 18 for mention.
The disturbing video showing the assault quickly went viral, sparking outrage on social media. The Lagos State Police Command confirmed Nwadigbo’s arrest on January 8, with CSP Benjamin Hundeyin stating that further investigations were underway to ensure justice is served.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) also confirmed the arrest and began its own investigation. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), DSVA emphasized the importance of safe and protective environments for children in educational institutions.
The case continues to draw attention to the need for better protection and oversight in schools to prevent such incidents.
