A disturbing incident unfolded at Aces Nursery, Primary, and Secondary School in Abuja when a father, Muhammed Jimeta, resorted to violence against teacher Sekinat Adedeji, allegedly in response to the teacher’s disciplinary action against his daughter, Karima Jimeta.
According to Sekinat Adedeji, who recounted the incident to PUNCH Metro, she teaches Karima Jimeta in Basic Three and had disciplined her for misbehaving along with other students. The situation escalated when Karima disrespected Adedeji by using an offensive term (“uwarka”) towards her. Adedeji then disciplined Karima by lightly striking her leg with a ruler.
However, the matter took a distressing turn when Muhammed Jimeta arrived at the school later in the day and assaulted Adedeji, who was holding her three-month-old baby at the time. Jimeta allegedly slapped Adedeji four times, despite the presence of other teachers and parents who attempted to intervene.
One eyewitness, Magdalene Ukuedojor, condemned Jimeta’s actions, emphasizing that Adedeji was carrying her infant during the attack. Ukuedojor also noted that Karima had a history of disrespectful behavior, but physical violence against a teacher and nursing mother was unjustifiable.
Moreover, Ukuedojor claimed that Adedeji had previously beaten Karima, prompting concerns among parents. However, she stressed that resorting to violence against a teacher was unacceptable and should have been addressed through proper channels.
The incident has sparked outrage among parents and the school community, highlighting the need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms and a zero-tolerance policy towards violence in schools. Additionally, it underscores the importance of fostering a culture of respect and cooperation between teachers, students, and parents to ensure a conducive learning environment for all.