Former Teacher Sentenced to Life for Assaulting Eight-Year-Old Student

A former teacher, Nwatu Isaac, has been sentenced to life in prison by the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja for sexually assaulting an eight-year-old girl. The incident occurred at El-Bossaa Nursery and Primary School in Epe on March 10, 2022.

Justice Rahman Oshodi ruled that Isaac had sexual intercourse with the child in the school’s male toilet. The court heard that Isaac, who had previously taught the girl, lured her into the toilet under the pretense of asking her to fetch a piece of paper. Once inside, he locked the door and assaulted her.

After returning home, the girl told her father about the assault. Her mother noticed blood on the girl’s clothing and took her for a medical examination. The examination at the Mirabel Centre revealed signs of penetration, supporting the girl’s account.

During the trial, Isaac denied entering the school, claiming he was only at the gate. However, the court found his testimony unconvincing, as he admitted to being on the school premises when the assault took place. The judge emphasized that the child’s testimony was clear and consistent, and it was backed by medical evidence and her mother’s observations.

Justice Oshodi highlighted the seriousness of the crime and the breach of trust involved, as Isaac had been in a position of authority over the child. He was convicted under a law that mandates life imprisonment for sexual offenses against minors.

Additionally, the court instructed the prosecution to address concerns raised by the victim’s mother regarding intimidation from school staff following the incident.