Discipline is meant to guide, to teach, and to nurture, but when it crosses the line into abuse, it shatters trust, diminishes self-worth, and inflicts long-lasting scars. Such was the case on January 8, 2025, when a video surfaced on the internet where Stella Nwadigo, a 45-year-old teacher at Christ-Mitots School in Ikorodu, assaulted three-year-old Abayomi Michael. His crime? Struggling to write a figure “6” as the video posted on social media shows. The incident sparked outrage and heartbreak across Nigeria, raising urgent questions about the methods used to discipline children in schools.
While Nwadigo has been arrested, the larger issue remains unresolved. The slap she delivered to Abayomi was not just a blow to the child’s face but to the very foundation of what education should represent: a safe space for learning and growth. This tragic event compels us to examine the thin line between discipline and abuse and challenges us to rethink how children are corrected in schools.
Corporal Punishment: The Fine Line Between Discipline and Abuse
Corporal punishment has a long history in Nigerian schools. Many adults today recount stories of being flogged for minor infractions or humiliated in front of their peers. In many parts of Nigeria, corporal punishment is deeply entrenched in culture. Phrases like “spare the rod and spoil the child” have been used to justify physical discipline for generations. Parents and teachers often believe that a firm hand is necessary to instill discipline and ensure academic success. However, this cultural norm has blurred the line between correction and abuse. The belief that physical punishment equates to love and care perpetuates harmful practices that prioritise obedience over understanding. While discipline is crucial, it must evolve to reflect modern pedagogical practices that respect children’s rights and dignity. For some, these experiences were dismissed as a necessary part of growing up. However, research and evolving social attitudes suggest otherwise.
Discipline, at its core, is a tool for shaping behaviour and instilling values. In schools, it plays a critical role in fostering respect, responsibility, and resilience. However, when applied incorrectly, it becomes a weapon of harm. Abuse—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—erodes a child’s confidence, creates fear, and stifles the very curiosity that education aims to ignite.
In Abayomi’s case, the punishment was not proportional to his action. A three-year-old struggling to write is not a sign of defiance but an indication of where he is developmentally. The teacher’s role should have been to provide guidance, encouragement, and alternative strategies to help him learn. Instead, her actions reflected impatience and frustration, leading to violence.
Studies have shown that corporal punishment has long-term detrimental effects on children. A report by UNICEF highlights that children subjected to violence in schools are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and difficulty in forming relationships later in life. In Nigeria, where corporal punishment remains prevalent, this incident is a glaring reminder of the need for systemic change. In Abayomi’s case, the teacher’s actions were not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of behaviour in Nigerian schools. Many children face daily humiliation, fear, and violence in the name of discipline. These practices do not build character; they breed resentment, rebellion, and low self-esteem. Moreover, abuse in schools undermines the fundamental purpose of education: to create a safe and supportive environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. When children fear their teachers, they are less likely to participate actively in class, ask questions, or express themselves creatively.
The Role of Teachers in Shaping Lives
Teachers hold a unique position in children’s lives. Beyond academics, they serve as role models, mentors, and caregivers. Their actions, whether positive or negative, leave an indelible mark on their students’ development. In contrast, teachers who use positive reinforcement and constructive feedback often see better results. A child who is encouraged to try again after making a mistake learns resilience and confidence. These are the qualities that educators should strive to instil, rather than fear and submission.
Alternatives to Corporal Punishment
The notion that physical punishment is the most effective form of discipline is outdated and harmful. There are numerous alternative methods that are not only more humane but also more effective in achieving long-term behavioural change. They include but not limited to;
Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding good behaviour encourages children to repeat it. This could be as simple as verbal praise or more tangible rewards like stickers or stars.
Clear Expectations and Rules: Children thrive in environments where expectations are clearly outlined. When they understand the rules, they are more likely to follow them.
Time-Outs: Giving children time to reflect on their actions is a non-violent way to address misbehaviour.
Open Communication: Encouraging dialogue helps children understand the consequences of their actions and fosters mutual respect between teachers and students.
The Responsibility of Schools
Schools play a crucial role in ensuring that discipline is administered appropriately. Schools should provide teachers with training on child psychology and alternative discipline methods. While many schools have abolished corporal punishment and adopted alternative disciplinary measures.others should implement and enforce policies that ban physical punishment. Establishing systems to monitor classroom behaviour and hold teachers accountable for their actions.
A Call for Parental Involvement
Parents also have a role to play in shaping how their children are disciplined. Open communication between parents and schools can help ensure that children are treated with respect and care. Additionally, parents must educate themselves about their children’s rights and advocate for safe learning environments. As a society, we must prioritise the emotional and physical well-being of our children. This requires a collective effort from teachers, parents, policymakers, and the community at large. By embracing compassion and rejecting violence, we can create an educational system that truly nurtures and empowers the next generation.
