The Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, has expressed serious concern over the increasing attacks on schools, teachers, and students across Nigeria.
The union described the incidents as cruel and unacceptable, warning that insecurity within the education sector is becoming unbearable for teachers and learners.
In a statement issued by NUT National President, Audu Amba, and Secretary General, Clinton Ikpitibo, the union said schools are gradually losing their status as safe learning environments due to repeated attacks by gunmen and criminal groups.
According to the statement, the situation has triggered fear, anxiety, and emotional distress among teachers, students, parents, and residents of affected communities.
The union referenced the attack carried out on May 15, 2026, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The affected institutions included Local Authority Primary School, Ahoro-Esinele, Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota.
Reports indicated that armed men kidnapped a school principal, seven teachers, and dozens of pupils and students during the assault.
One of the teachers was also reportedly killed during the incident.
NUT lamented that the slain teacher was wearing his official union outfit at the time of the attack, describing him as a committed educator who dedicated his life to the teaching profession.
The union further reacted to reports claiming that one of the abducted teachers was later murdered by the kidnappers.
It also cited another incident in Borno State where over 40 pupils and students were reportedly abducted from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary Schools in Askira-Uba Local Government Area.
The union declared solidarity with the affected schools, grieving families, abducted teachers, and students.
NUT urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure that all kidnapped victims regain their freedom safely.
The union also appealed to both federal and state governments to strengthen security around schools and introduce proactive measures capable of preventing future attacks.
According to the teachers’ body, continuous attacks on educational institutions pose a major danger to the future of education and national development.
“Teachers cannot continue to work in an environment dominated by fear, violence, abduction, and killings,” the statement noted.
The union warned that members may be compelled to embark on industrial action if urgent steps are not taken to address insecurity in schools.
NUT called on authorities at all levels to prioritise the protection of schools, teachers, students, and surrounding communities.
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