Teachers Threaten Nationwide Strike Over Growing Attacks On Schools

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has warned of a possible nationwide strike, following a recent surge in attacks on schools by terrorists and bandits in Kebbi and Niger States.

Addressing a press conference on behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC) and NUT members in Abuja yesterday, the Union’s national President, Comr. Audu Titus Amba expressed profound outrage over the incidents.

He condemned the brutal 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, and over 300 pupils and 12 staff from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara LGA, Niger State.

The Union also described these attacks as barbaric and unacceptable, calling on the Federal Government to halt the incessant kidnappings and assaults on schools to prevent a collapse of the nation’s education system.

“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.”

The Union lamented that recent attacks have forced some schools to close, mortgaging the future of children and exposing the government’s failure 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 Union expressed solidarity with the families of abducted children, the colleagues of slain staff, and the affected community.

It also demanded the immediate release of all victims and the apprehension of perpetrators. It further urged security agencies to intensify efforts to protect schools and citizens nationwide from terrorists and bandits.

“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.