Outrage as Teacher Caught on Video Slapping Toddler in Lagos
In a shocking incident that has sparked public outrage, a 45-year-old teacher, Stella Nwadigo, has been remanded by the Ogba Chief Magistrate Court for allegedly assaulting a three-year-old pupil at Christ-Mitos Primary School in Ikorodu, Lagos State.
A viral video shared online showed Nwadigo repeatedly slapping the toddler for struggling to write numbers, prompting widespread condemnation and her subsequent arrest.
During the court hearing on Thursday, police prosecutor Supol Akeem Raji detailed that the incident occurred on January 7, 2025. The assault reportedly left the child, Abayomi Michael, with injuries and a swollen face. The charges, which include indecent treatment and assault, contravene Sections 135 and 172 of the Lagos State Criminal Law 2015.
Nwadigo pleaded not guilty, and Magistrate Olabisi Kusanu granted her bail of ₦200,000 with two sureties. However, the teacher has been remanded at Kirikiri correctional facility until the next hearing on February 18, 2025.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the arrest and assured the public of justice, while the school condemned the incident, suspending Nwadigo indefinitely. The school further apologised to the pupil’s family and announced new measures, including mandatory staff training and a whistleblowing system to prevent future misconduct.
The victim is receiving medical care as investigations continue.
