The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) have on Tuesday staged a nationwide protest over the killing of a teacher in Oyo State while also demanding the rescue of other teachers and students abducted by suspected kidnappers.
The protest, which took place simultaneously across the country, was organised following a directive from the union’s national headquarters as concerns mount over the safety of teachers and students across the country.
Speaking during the demonstration in Abuja, the FCT Chairman of the NUT, Abdullahi Shafa, said the protest was in compliance with a directive from the union’s national headquarters.
Shafa described the incident as tragic and unacceptable, stressing that teachers should not be exposed to violence while carrying out their responsibility of educating future generations.
He lamented that the slain teacher was beheaded by suspected kidnappers despite being engaged in the noble task of imparting knowledge to students.
“It is touching, horrifying and devastating that a teacher who has dedicated his life to providing quality education to children could be killed in such a manner,” he said.
The union leader warned that persistent attacks on teachers and schools could create fear among educators, disrupt learning activities and further weaken the country’s education system.
He urged the Federal Government and security agencies to take urgent and decisive steps to protect teachers, students and educational institutions across the country.
Shafa also called for improved security infrastructure in schools, including perimeter fencing, surveillance measures and other protective facilities to safeguard learning environments.
“Our appeal to government is to provide adequate security for teachers and pupils and improve infrastructure within the school system to guarantee a safe learning environment,” he stated.