Gidi Real Estate Investment Limited has awarded a full scholarship and provided accommodation to three-year-old Abayomi Michael, a pupil at Christ-Mitots School in Isawo, Ikorodu, Lagos, who was assaulted by his teacher, Mrs. Stella Nwadigbo.
The incident, captured on video and circulated widely on social media, sparked outrage and prompted swift action from the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development.
The teacher, Mrs. Nwadigbo, has since been apprehended by the Family Support Unit (FSU) of the Ikorodu Police Division and remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Facility. Her trial is set to resume on February 18 at the Ogba Magistrate Court.
At a ceremony held in Alausa to formalize the scholarship agreement, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to child safety and well-being.
He stated, “The state government cannot do it alone. We are always ready to partner with any individual or group that can assist us in alleviating the burden on our citizens. We appreciate Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd for this noble gesture and encourage others to follow suit.”
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Pharm. Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, echoed these sentiments, expressing the government’s deep concern about the abuse. She said, “We were deeply disturbed by the physical abuse of Michael Abayomi. To ensure it was not ignored, we immediately took appropriate action to secure justice and provide the necessary medical care for the child. We are pleased today that the situation has turned into a positive outcome.”
A Transformative Gesture
Ayorinde Ejioye, Co-founder of Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd., explained the company’s motivation for stepping in. “When we learned of this incident, we realized it could happen to any child. As part of our commitment to social good, we decided to sponsor Abayomi’s education from primary through university level,” he said.
In addition to the scholarship, the company has provided a two-bedroom flat for Abayomi’s mother, Mrs. Nike Okunlaya, a widow.
Legal Actions Against the Perpetrator
The teacher, Mrs. Stella Nwadigbo, faces serious legal consequences. Her arrest and detention at Kirikiri Correctional Facility underscore the Lagos State government’s zero-tolerance stance on child abuse.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) continues to monitor the case, ensuring justice for Abayomi and reinforcing the government’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable citizens.
This story highlights the power of collective action, with the government, corporate entities, and civil society collaborating to turn a tragic event into a beacon of hope for Abayomi and his family.
