“Wicked and Inhumane”: Enugu Teacher Locks 4-Year-Old in Office Overnight

A disturbing case of alleged child abuse has been reported at Central School Enugwu Akwu Achi, in Oji River Local Government Area of Enugu State, where a teacher allegedly locked a four-year-old pupil inside her office overnight as punishment.

Teacher Locks Pupil as Punishment

According to reports, the teacher had instructed the Primary One pupil to kneel in her office after school hours, locked the door, and went home with the keys — unaware or unconcerned that the child was still inside.

The little boy was trapped from around 2 p.m. until 10 p.m., when he was finally discovered after frantic efforts by his parents and other community members.

Rescue Operation Sparks Outrage

After hours of searching, the boy’s parents, assisted by neighbours and school staff, broke into the teacher’s office and found the child terrified, weak, and crying.

The shocking discovery triggered outrage in the community, with residents describing the teacher’s behaviour as “wicked and inhumane.”
Many are demanding her immediate arrest and dismissal, calling for stronger child protection enforcement in public schools.

Authorities Launch Investigation

The Chief Security Officer of Oji River LGA, Nnaemeka Anyalebechi Radica, has confirmed that an investigation is underway.

He vowed that justice would be served, stating that preliminary findings already point to gross negligence and child endangerment.

“This matter will not be swept under the carpet,” Radica assured. “We will ensure appropriate disciplinary and legal actions are taken against anyone found culpable.”

Local authorities have also confirmed that disciplinary measures are being considered against the teacher while investigations continue.