Mrs. Faith Nwoye, a teacher at Landmark International School in Mgbakwu, Awka North local government area, Anambra State, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison for the death of a nine-year-old pupil, Master Henry Okonkwo.
A special court handling Women and Children-related cases in Awka, the capital of the State handed down the sentence.
The incident occurred when Mrs. Nwoye flogged Henry, leading to his hospitalization in the Intensive Care Unit, where he unfortunately passed away.
The child has since been laid to rest in his hometown, Igbakwu, in Ayamelum LGA.
Professor Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, Commissioner for Education, expressed deep condolences to the Okonkwo family on behalf of the education community and the state government.
Represented by the Director of Schools, Mrs. Ifeoma Onyeneke, Chuma-Udeh lamented the avoidable loss of a promising young life.
In her remarks, Chuma-Udeh stressed the importance of enrolling children in approved schools with qualified teachers to prevent such tragedies.
She reminded residents that governor Chukwuma Soludo has declared the operation of illegal schools in the state as a criminal offense.
Meanwhile, this case underscores the critical need for regulatory oversight in educational institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of students.
