By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Kaduna State Wing, on Tuesday joined a nationwide solidarity rally, urging the government to treat attacks on schools and the abduction of students and teachers as a national emergency.
Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna, the union said the rally was prompted by recurring attacks on educational institutions across Nigeria, including recent incidents in Oyo State. In a statement signed by State Secretary Adamu Ayuba Kaltungo and State Treasurer Comrade Sunday Garba on behalf of the chairman, the union expressed concern over the growing insecurity affecting schools and learning environments.
The NUT cited several high-profile school abductions recorded in different states over the years, including incidents in Borno, Yobe, Katsina, Niger, Zamfara, Kaduna, Kebbi, Kogi, and Oyo states.The union called for the immediate release of all students and teachers still in captivity and urged authorities to deploy all available resources to secure their freedom.
It also demanded improved security measures in schools, including fencing, surveillance, and regular patrols, particularly in vulnerable communities. Other demands included the prosecution of perpetrators, stronger penalties for attacks on educational institutions, and support for victims and affected families through counselling, medical care, and financial assistance.
The union further called for greater collaboration among government agencies, communities, traditional leaders, civil society groups, and parents to strengthen school safety. NUT warned that continued attacks on schools threaten the future of education and urged authorities to take urgent action to prevent further incidents.
