The Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, says it received with deep outrage reports of attacks by armed bandits on Local Authority Primary School, Ahoro-Esinle; Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle; and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, all in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The union said the attacks led to the abduction of a school principal, seven teachers and more than 30 pupils and students, while a teacher was shot dead during the incident.
In a statement signed by NUT President and Secretary-General , the union described the attacks as painful and traumatic for members, noting that the slain teacher was reportedly wearing his union attire at the time of the attack.
The statement also described as deeply disturbing reports that one of the abducted teachers was later beheaded by the attackers.
The NUT further said it was alarming that on the same day, more than 40 pupils and students were reportedly abducted from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary Schools in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
The union strongly condemned what it described as “wicked and inhuman attacks” on innocent teachers and learners, warning that schools are increasingly becoming targets of violent criminal groups.
According to the statement, the growing wave of attacks has created fear, panic and emotional trauma within school communities and continues to threaten access to safe learning environments.
The NUT said it stands in solidarity with the affected schools and families of the victims, while calling on security agencies to intensify rescue efforts to secure the safe release of those abducted.
The union also urged the Federal Government and affected state governments to strengthen security around schools and adopt preventive measures to stop further attacks, warning that continued assaults on educational institutions pose a serious threat to the future of education and national development.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
