Teachers threaten Nationwide strike over growing attacks on schools
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has warned that it may embark on a nationwide strike following the recent wave of attacks on schools by bandits and terrorists in Kebbi and Niger States.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday on behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC), NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, expressed deep anger and concern over the escalating violence targeting schools.
The Union condemned the gruesome killing of a Vice Principal and a security guard, as well as the abduction of 25 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.
It also denounced the kidnapping of more than 300 pupils and 12 staff from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara LGA of Niger State.
Describing the attacks as “barbaric and unacceptable,” the NUT urged the Federal Government to urgently stop the recurring abductions and assaults on schools to avert a total collapse of the nation’s education sector.
“These grievous attacks are not only assaults on schools, teachers and learners, but direct blows to the foundation of education and the sustainable development of our nation. Classrooms are meant to be sanctuaries for nurturing young minds. The destruction of these learning environments spells doom not just for our children, but for the nation as a whole” he said
The Union lamented that recent attacks have forced some schools to close, mortgaging the future of children and exposing the failure of government to implement the Safe Schools Declaration and related policies aimed at protecting schools.
NUT further called on federal and state governments to prioritise the safe rescue of abducted students and staff and to strengthen security measures around schools, especially in vulnerable areas.
“The recent attacks are a tragic reminder that teachers and learners have become an endangered species, increasingly subjected to horrific attacks and kidnappings, often resulting in death.
If this inhuman and deadly trend continues, the NUT will have no option but to call on all teachers to down tools and stay at home until their safety and security are guaranteed. Stop the attacks on schools now” he added
