Assaulted Pupil, Abayomi, Gets Scholarship
By Nurudeen Adebayo
Abayomi Michael, three-year-old victim of physical abuse by his teacher at Christ-Mitots School in Ikorodu gets scholarship from the Lagos State Ministry of Youths and Social Development..
The incident, which was captured in a viral video, sparked widespread outrage and intervention from the state government and private organizations.
At a formal ceremony held recently in Alausa, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youths and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, commended Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd for its intervention.
The real estate firm has pledged to sponsor Michael’s education from primary school through university.
The company also provided a two-bedroom apartment for Michael’s mother, Mrs. Nike Okunlaya, a widow.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Ogunlende emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing social challenges.
He said, “The state government cannot do it alone. We are always ready to partner with individuals or organizations that assist in alleviating the burden on our citizens.
We appreciate Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd for this noble gesture and urge others to emulate them.”
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Pharm. (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, expressed concern over the abuse, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring justice and care for vulnerable citizens.
“We were deeply disturbed by the physical abuse of Michael Abayomi. Immediate steps were taken to secure justice and provide the necessary medical care for the child.
Today, we are pleased that this unfortunate incident has turned into a positive outcome,” she said.
The Co-founder of Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd, Mr. Ayorinde Ejioye, disclosed that the company was moved to act after learning of the incident.
“This could happen to any child, and we believe it is our duty to intervene. We are committed to seeing Master Abayomi Michael through his education and ensuring his family is supported,” he noted.
The abusive teacher, Mrs. Stella Nwadigbo, 45, was apprehended by the Family Support Unit (FSU) of Ikorodu Police Division and the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA).
She has been remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Facility by the Ogba Chief Magistrate Court.
Her bail was set at ₦200,000 with two sureties, and her case has been adjourned until February 18.
The incident, which occurred after Michael struggled to grasp his teacher’s lesson, highlights the ongoing issue of abuse in educational institutions.
In response, the Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and well-being of children across the state.
This tragic event has now led to a heartening outcome, with a full scholarship and housing support ensuring a brighter future for Abayomi Michael and his family.
