- Christ-Mitots International School pledges reforms after viral video sparks outrage.
The management of Christ-Mitots International School in Isawo, Ikorodu, Lagos State, has indefinitely suspended a teacher, Stella Nwadigo, following allegations of physically assaulting a three-year-old boy, Abayomi Michael. The teacher’s arrest was confirmed on Wednesday by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency.
The incident, captured in a video shared on social media platform X by a user identified as Oyindamola, showed Nwadigo slapping the child, sparking widespread condemnation.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency announced Nwadigo’s arrest by the Owutu Family Support Unit. “We appreciate everyone who brought this disturbing incident to our attention. We are pleased to inform the public that the teacher in question has been arrested, and investigations are ongoing,” the agency stated.
By Thursday, the school’s management released an official statement addressing the incident, describing it as “deeply troubling” and “completely contrary” to the institution’s values.
“We are horrified by this incident and wish to make it unequivocally clear that such actions will not be tolerated. The teacher involved has been suspended indefinitely as we conduct a thorough investigation. This immediate action reflects our zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct and our obligation to safeguard every child’s well-being,” the statement read.
The school extended an apology to the victim and his family, expressing regret over the incident. “We have personally reached out to the family to offer our support and ensure their needs are addressed during this difficult time,” the management added.
The institution also announced measures to prevent such incidents in the future, including mandatory training sessions for teachers on child protection protocols, positive disciplinary practices, and student sensitivity. A confidential whistleblowing system has also been introduced to encourage prompt reporting of inappropriate behavior.
“We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as we work to address this matter responsibly and comprehensively,” the school concluded.
