Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd has extended a generous scholarship offer to 3-year-old Abayomi Michael, a pupil at Christ-Mitots School in the Isawo area of Ikorodu, following an incident of physical abuse by his teacher, Mrs. Stella Nwadigbo. The abuse occurred after Abayomi was unable to learn certain numbers quickly.
The distressing incident, which went viral on social media last Wednesday, garnered widespread attention and prompted a swift response from the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development.
The Ministry issued a press release condemning the abuse in the strongest terms, with the Commissioner, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of children in educational institutions across the state.
At a ceremony organized by the Ministry to formalize the scholarship agreement between Abayomi’s family and Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd, held recently in Alausa, Ogunlende emphasized the Ministry’s openness to collaborating with public-spirited individuals and organizations that support vulnerable citizens.
He said, “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.”
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Pharm. (Mrs.) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, expressed deep concern over the abuse, stating, “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.”
Mr. Ayorinde Ejioye, Co-founder of Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd, explained that the company was made aware of the incident through reports in Lagos. Recognizing that such abuse could happen to any child, the company decided to intervene by sponsoring Abayomi’s education from primary through university level. Additionally, Gidi Real Estate Investment Ltd has provided a 2-bedroom flat for Mrs. Nike Okunlaya, Abayomi’s mother and a widow.
Meanwhile, the 45-year Mrs Stella Nwadigbo who was apprehended by the Family Support Unit (FSU) of Ikorodu Police Division and the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) was subsequently remanded by the Ogba Chief Magistrate Court on Thursday last week at the Kirikiri Correctional facility until February 18 when the case would continue.
