The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) is once again in the spotlight, this time for confirming the arrest of a teacher after a shocking video of alleged child abuse surfaced online. The video, which has gone viral, shows a female teacher identified as Stella Nwadigo slapping the face of a three-year-old boy named Abayomi Michael at Christ-Mitots School in Ikorodu.
Shared by an X (formerly Twitter) user, Oyindamola (#dammiedammie35), the video has sent shock through the community, raising uncomfortable questions about the safety of children in schools. “Footage from Christ-Mitots School in Ikorodu, a teacher named Stella Nwadigo was witnessed mistreating and physically abusing a three-year-old boy, Abayomi Micheal,” the caption read. The incident has left many parents furious and demanding accountability, with some questioning how such an individual was allowed near children in the first place.
The Lagos DSVA, reacting promptly, issued a statement thanking members of the public for bringing the matter to their attention. “We appreciate everyone who brought the disturbing incident of a teacher who was recorded physically abusing a 3-year-old boy to our attention,” the statement read. The agency confirmed that the teacher had been arrested by Owutu FSU, and an investigation is now underway.
The state government has promised to hold offenders accountable and enforce strict regulations. The agency added that it is committed to promoting a zero-tolerance policy for abuse, encouraging the public to report similar incidents via their toll-free hotline. “If you have any additional information about this case or similar incidents, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via our toll-free hotline: 08000 333 333 or send a direct message on our social media platforms,” the statement said.
What exactly is going wrong with our education system? Teachers are supposed to be caregivers, yet here we are, watching viral videos of physical abuse in schools. If you lack the patience to deal with children, why take up a teaching job? Education is not just about textbooks, it’s about understanding that children learn at different paces and require varying levels of support.
Unfortunately, in Nigeria, teaching is often seen as a last resort, not a passion. Many trained educators are sidelined, while individuals without proper qualifications or temperament are handed the job. This case serves as another reminder that the government must prioritize the welfare of both children and trained educators. Perhaps if education professionals were better trained, monitored, and treated with respect, we’d see fewer cases like this one.
