The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has warned that a nationwide strike may soon begin as attacks on schools in Nigeria continue to rise.
The Union said the recent tragedies in Kebbi and Niger States have shocked teachers across the country.
Moreover, the organisation described the situation as a serious threat to the future of education.
The warning was issued during a press briefing held in Abuja on Tuesday.
The Union’s National President, Comr. Audu Titus Amba, spoke on behalf of the National Executive Council and all NUT members.
According to him, the killings and kidnappings have pushed schools into fear.
Furthermore, he stressed that these events have placed teachers and students in a dangerous position.
The NUT condemned the killing of a Vice Principal and a security guard during an attack in Kebbi State.
In addition, 25 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, were taken by armed men.
The Union also condemned the kidnapping of more than 300 pupils and 12 staff from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Niger State.
“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 warned that the rising attacks have forced several schools to close.
This, they said, is mortgaging the future of children and shows the government’s failure to fully act on the Safe Schools Declaration.
Therefore, they urged the federal and state governments to take serious action.
The NUT demanded the safe rescue of all students and teachers taken in recent raids.
They also called for stronger security around schools, especially in risky communities.
“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.
Meanwhile, parents and education groups have echoed similar concerns.
