Christ Mitots School, located in Ikorodu, Lagos State, has suspended a teacher captured in a viral video physically assaulting a 3-year-old pupil during a numeracy class.
Incident Sparks Outrage
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, drew widespread condemnation after the video surfaced on social media. The footage showed the teacher smacking the toddler violently, prompting calls for her arrest and highlighting the violation of the Nigerian Child Rights Act.
According to the Act, “Every child is entitled to respect for the dignity of their person, and accordingly, no child shall be subjected to physical, mental, or emotional injury, abuse, neglect, or maltreatment.”
Police and Government Response
Lagos Police Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the teacher’s arrest, stating she is currently in detention pending a detailed investigation.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) also condemned the teacher’s actions, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment for children.
“The state government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of every child by enforcing strict regulations, holding offenders accountable, and working with stakeholders to promote a zero-tolerance policy for abuse in any form,” the DSVA stated.
School’s Reaction
In response to the incident, the school issued a statement expressing deep concern and describing the teacher’s behavior as “unacceptable and contrary to the values and principles” of the institution.
“We are aware of a deeply troubling incident involving one of our teachers and a student, which has been circulating on social media,” the statement read.
“The video shows a teacher engaging in the physical discipline of a student in a manner that is completely unacceptable and contrary to the values and principles of our school.”
The school announced the indefinite suspension of the teacher while an investigation is underway.
Apology and Preventive Measures
The school management extended an apology to the affected child and their family, assuring them of full support during this period.
“In light of this incident, we are taking firm steps to ensure such behavior is never repeated. Mandatory training sessions will be organized for our staff to reinforce child protection protocols, emphasize positive disciplinary practices, and cultivate greater sensitivity in interactions with students,” the school stated.
Additionally, the school has introduced a confidential whistle-blowing system to encourage the timely reporting of inappropriate behavior.
A Commitment to Child Safety
This incident highlights the ongoing need for vigilance in safeguarding children within educational institutions. Stakeholders, including parents, educators, and authorities, are urged to work collaboratively to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all children.
Comment
Protecting Our Children: Addressing Abuse in Schools in Nigeria.
We commend the Nigerian Police Force for swiftly arresting the teacher who assaulted a three-year-old in her class and acknowledge the school management’s decision to suspend the teacher while investigations continue. However, this incident highlights a broader issue of child abuse in schools across Nigeria, demanding urgent action.
* Strict Penalties for Offenders
To deter similar offenses, a penalty of five years imprisonment without an option of fine should be imposed on anyone found guilty of assaulting children under five. Such abuse has grave psychological consequences, potentially damaging a child’s future and their ability to contribute meaningfully to society. Additionally, convicted teachers should face a lifetime ban from teaching, as is standard in developed countries.
* Comprehensive Investigation
Authorities should confidentially interrogate students at the school to identify other cases of abuse and ensure all guilty parties are prosecuted. This issue requires the seriousness it deserves, as the physical and mental well-being of children must not be compromised.
* Strengthening School Licensing and Monitoring
State governments must introduce stricter requirements for licensing schools, including the mandatory installation of internet-based CCTV systems with recording and remote monitoring in all classrooms. Regular monitoring by independent assessors is essential to ensure compliance and accountability.
* Reforming Teacher Recruitment and Training
Teacher recruitment should include psychological evaluations conducted by accredited psychiatric institutions. Teachers must also be trained to handle both regular children and those with learning disabilities. Licensing for teaching should only be granted after fulfilling these conditions.
* Reviewing School Curricula
State governments must regulate curricula for toddlers, emphasizing learning through play, as is appropriate for their developmental stage. The current focus on profit by some school proprietors undermines the educational purpose of schools and must be addressed.
It is unjust to expose innocent children, who represent the future of our nation, to the whims of untrained, abusive individuals. The Lagos State Government and other State Governments must take proactive steps to ensure schools are safe spaces where children can grow, learn, and thrive.
Dr. Amiida
Headlinenews.news
