The management of the State Universal Basic Education Board, Niger State, has suspended Alhaji Usman Galadima, who was accused of sexually abusing at least 14 pupils in the primary school where he teaches.
Galadima, a grade two teacher of Central Primary School, in Karabonde, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, was accused of sexually abusing female students in grades 2 and 3 and threatening to kill them if they tell anyone.
Some of the students reportedly opened up to the Headmistress of their school, Maimunat Tanko, who then reported the matter to the Head Master, Mallam Abdullahi Toure.
The case got the attention of the social welfare department of Borgu LGA. This was followed by a visit from the Education Secretary of the council to the school.
A committee was set up to investigate the matter on Friday, August 27.
After several denials, Galadima eventually confessed to the crime when he appeared before the committee.
It was learnt that after Galadima confessed, it appeared the elders of New Bussa were trying to “cover up the case” and family members of the victims became worried that their kids may not get justice.
However, SUBEB has said that the accused deserves to be punished for what he has done, starting with a suspension.
SUBEB’s Public Relations Officer, PRO, Idris Kolo, said Galadima is now with Child Right Protection Agency.
He said: “The accused is presently with Child Right Protection Agency.
“We have to move him from Borgu to Minna to save his life from mob action by parents and families of the victims.
“They are all furious over what he did to their daughters.
“The management of SUBEB has suspended him because, what he did cannot be swept under the carpet by anyone.
“The State governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, is not happy with the development.”
Also, Niger State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, said the State Commissioner of Police, Monday Bala Kuryas, has ordered a thorough investigation into the case.
– Media Report