The Paedophile Teacher: Calling Out Injustice

Modupe in 1977

 Dealing with the Marauding Pedophile Teacher

I remember that I entered puberty earlier than my classmates and I began to feel awkward about my body. However, it wasn't because I had issues with my body, but because of a particular teacher. He would often stare at me during class, making me feel uncomfortable. I tried to avoid his gaze, but it was hard to ignore.

Despite my discomfort, I continued attending his classes, not wanting to disappoint my father or face my mother's cane. Over time, the teacher became bolder, calling me out at odd moments and watching me walk. He would linger over my work, even when there was no need to. I felt like I was being undressed by his eyes.

One day, he crossed a line. While leaning over my work, he brushed his arm against my chest. I froze, wondering if it was a mistake. But then it happened again, and again. I realized I didn't deserve to be treated this way.

"Excuse me, Sir," I said, standing up to face him. "If you want to ask me out, please do it properly. Don't paw at my breasts in front of the entire class. Ṣebi àgbà ni yin[1]" The room erupted, and my classmates cackled in support as they had all observed his actions over time.

I was eventually summoned to the principal's office and was asked if I had really been rude to the teacher. I replied and said, "I only corrected him on what I didn't like." The principal scolded me for being rude and principal threatened to tell my father and put my name in the School’s Black Book. However, I stood my ground and explained what had happened, saying that I wouldn't wait for someone to harm me before speaking up.

I waited, expecting to be punished for my boldness but the dreaded punishment never came. Instead, the teacher resigned quietly, and I continued attending school without any repercussions. I had confronted an inappropriate teacher, fought for myself, and protected my reputation. 

Being vocal had its benefits, just as the elders said, "Ai le sọrọ, ni'bẹrẹ oriburuku"[2] - speaking up can prevent evil.

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[1] ‘You are after all an Elder.’ Of course, any true Yoruba would know that what I really meant was, ‘You are an elder with clearly no knowledge of how to be an elder, if your actions are anything to go by.’

[2] “The failure to speak out is the beginning of bad luck!” This means not just talking, it means fighting for yourself and being your own advocate.