Mrs. Adenike Okunlaya, widowed mother of a three-year-old pupil assaulted by a female teacher at Christ-Miltos Primary School, Ikorodu, Lagos, has revealed that her three-year-old son suffered ear damage due to repeated slaps from his teacher.
Speaking in an interview with PUNCH, Mrs. Okunlaya admitted that her son had previously complained about being beaten by the teacher, but she assumed it was mild disciplinary action and did not raise concerns due to their work relationship.
However, after the video surfaced, she involved her pastor, who reported the matter to the school’s headmistress.
Also, medical examinations at the Ikorodu General Hospital confirmed the boy’s ear was affected, necessitating further treatment.
“We had to take him to the Ikorodu General Hospital. The doctor said his ears had been affected. So, they directed us to a department in the hospital for a medical check-up of his ears. The doctors gave us a medical report, which is still with Supo Bola at the Owutu Police Station.
We plan to take the report to the ear-care department once we get back from the Ministry of Youths and Social Development today (Friday). The commissioner asked us to bring the boy today (Friday). All I am after is to get justice for my son.”
Following the incident, the school terminated the teacher’s employment and expressed regret, emphasizing that teachers had been repeatedly warned against using corporal punishment. However, this case has raised broader concerns, with some claiming the dismissed teacher had a history of harsh discipline.
