The incident, which surfaced on Wednesday, has drawn widespread condemnation online and offline.
Stella Nwadigo, a classroom teacher at Christ-Mitots School, Isawo Road, Ikorodu, Lagos state, captured on camera assaulting a three-year-old pupil, Abayomi Michael, during a numeracy lesson has been suspended by the school.
The incident, which surfaced on Wednesday, has drawn widespread condemnation online and offline.
The two-minute clip captured the teacher striking the child five times while teaching numbers 61 and 62.
The police arrested the teacher on Wednesday.
In a statement, the school management condemned the teacher’s actions, labelling them as “unacceptable” and reiterating the school’s commitment to protecting its pupils.
The statement reads, “We are aware of a deeply troubling incident involving one of our teachers and a student, which has been circulating on social media.
“The video shows a teacher engaging in physical discipline in a manner that is completely unacceptable and contrary to the values and principles of our school.
“As an institution committed to fostering a culture of respect, care, and dignity, we are horrified by this incident and wish to unequivocally state that such actions will not be tolerated.
“In response, the teacher involved has been suspended indefinitely while a thorough investigation is conducted.
“This immediate and decisive action reflects our zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct and our obligation to safeguard the safety and well-being of every child under our care.”
The school extended an apology to the victim and his family, stating, “We sincerely apologize to the student and their family.
“We have reached out to them personally to express our regret, offer support, and ensure their needs are fully addressed during this difficult time.”
To prevent similar incidents, the school announced plans to implement measures, including mandatory training for all teachers on child protection, positive disciplinary practices, and sensitivity in student interactions.
Additionally, the school has introduced a “confidential whistle-blowing system” to encourage the timely reporting of inappropriate behavior within the institution.
