The Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, has condemned the recent attacks on schools, teachers, and students in parts of the country, describing the incidents as barbaric, disturbing, and inhuman.
In a statement signed by the union’s National President, Audu Amba, and Secretary-General, Clinton Ikpitibo, the union expressed concern over the growing insecurity around educational institutions nationwide.
According to the statement, schools which should serve as safe environments for learning are increasingly becoming targets of bandits and terrorists.
The union said the attacks have created fear, panic, and emotional trauma among teachers, pupils, parents, and affected communities.
The NUT specifically referenced the attacks carried out on May 15, 2026, in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The affected schools included:
• Local Authority Primary School, Ahoro-Esinele
• Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele
• Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota
According to the union, the attacks led to the abduction of a school principal, seven teachers, and more than 30 pupils and students.
The NUT also confirmed that one teacher was shot dead during the incident.
The union described it as particularly painful that the slain teacher was wearing his union attire at the time he was killed, adding that he remained committed to the teaching profession until his death.
The statement further raised concern over reports that one of the abducted teachers was later beheaded by the attackers.
The NUT also cited reports from Borno State where over 40 pupils and students were allegedly abducted the same day from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary Schools in Askira-Uba Local Government Area.
The union expressed solidarity with affected schools and families of victims while calling on security agencies to intensify rescue operations and secure the release of those still in captivity.
It also urged the Federal Government and affected state governments to strengthen security around schools and implement stronger preventive measures against future attacks.
“Teachers cannot effectively discharge their duties in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, where they are subjected to inhuman acts of kidnapping, maiming and killing,” the statement read.
The union warned that teachers may be forced to withdraw their services if attacks on schools continue across the country.
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