Lagos School Proprietor Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Child Sexual Abuse Case
A Lagos State court has sentenced a school proprietor, Benson Arinze, to life imprisonment for sexually abusing a six-year-old pupil. The ruling highlights growing concerns over child safeguarding failures in schools.
Justice Abiola Soladoye of the Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court delivered the judgment on Wednesday. The court ruled that the prosecution proved the case beyond reasonable doubt. It also ordered that Arinze’s name be added to the Lagos State Sexual Offenders Register.
The child, whose identity remains protected, attended Nurtured Brooks Nursery and Primary School in Ibeju-Lekki. She often stayed behind after school while waiting for her parents. Prosecutors said Arinze took advantage of these unsupervised periods to commit the abuse.
Over time, the child’s behaviour changed, raising concern at home. Her mother eventually questioned her about it. The child then disclosed repeated sexual abuse within the school environment. Following this disclosure, the family reported the matter to the Elemoro Police Station.
Investigators also charged a second staff member, Victor Ezenwata. He accepted a plea bargain during trial. The court subsequently sentenced him to 18 years in prison for related offences.
Justice Soladoye noted that witness testimonies were clear and consistent. She also dismissed the defence as unreliable and unconvincing. According to the court, the prosecution’s evidence firmly established guilt.
Child protection advocates have welcomed the judgment. However, they stress that stronger safeguards are still needed in schools. Many children remain vulnerable during after-school hours. This creates opportunities for abuse in trusted environments.
Experts are now calling for stricter supervision policies and improved background checks for school staff. They also recommend clearer reporting systems to protect children. Ultimately, they argue that schools must prioritize safety at every level.
