Mrs. Adenike Okunlaya, a widowed mother and teacher, is demanding justice after her three-year-old son was assaulted by a female teacher at Christ-Miltos Primary School, Ikorodu, Lagos.
The incident, which occurred on January 6, 2025, came to light after a video of the assault surfaced online.
The Incident:
Mrs. Okunlaya, who teaches in the same Christ-Miltos Primary School, recounted, “I was in my class when I heard shouting, ‘Write six; write six.’ Later, a colleague showed me the video. I felt sad and forwarded it to a friend, which led to the video being leaked.”
Her son had previously complained of being beaten by the teacher, but Mrs. Okunlaya had dismissed it as a typical discipline until the video exposed the severity of the abuse.
Medical Attention and Police Involvement:
Following the assault, the boy was taken to Ikorodu General Hospital, where doctors identified damage to his ears. A medical report was issued and submitted to the Owutu Police Station, with plans for further ear specialist consultations.
School’s Response:
The school management of Christ-Miltos Primary School, reportedly alarmed by the incident, terminated the teacher’s employment on January 7, a day after the assault. According to Mrs. Okunlaya, “The management always warned us not to beat the children, and they sacked the teacher before the police arrested her.
Personal Struggles:
Mrs. Okunlaya, who lost her husband three years ago, has been solely responsible for raising her son. She combines her teaching job with menial work, such as washing clothes and cleaning houses, to provide for her child. She said, “Despite my struggles, I never owed school fees. All I want is justice for my son.”
Community Reactions:
The viral video has reignited debates on corporal punishment in schools and the need for stricter oversight. Meanwhile, the Lagos State Ministry of Youths and Social Development has intervened, with the commissioner requesting to meet with the child for further action.
Mrs. Okunlaya’s case highlights the urgency of protecting vulnerable children in educational environments.