By Mariam Abeeb
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has staged a solidarity protest to condemn the killing of a teacher and demand the release of other abducted staff and students of Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking during the protest in Abuja, the FCT Chairman of NUT, Comrade Abdullahi Shafa, said the rally was in compliance with a directive from the union’s national headquarters.
According to him, the protest was organised in all states of the federation to express the union’s displeasure over the killing of a teacher in Oyo State by suspected kidnappers.
Shafa described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable, noting that teachers should not be subjected to such violence while carrying out their duties.
“If you are aware, in some weeks passed, teachers, students were not peaceful in the local government of Oyo State.
“A teacher there was beheaded instantly for no just cause. This is somebody that have gone to impact knowledge on our students but that was the result of what he got at the end of his life.
“It is touching, it is horrifying, it is devastating that a teacher who has put in his best to ensure that the children get qualitative education is being killed like that without any reason. All in the name of kidnapping and banditry.
“It is not good for the system,” he said.
The union leader said the development had generated fear among teachers and could negatively affect the teaching and learning environment if not urgently addressed.
He appealed to the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to take proactive measures to protect teachers, students and school facilities nationwide.
Shafa also called for improved school infrastructure, including the construction of perimeter fences and other security measures to make schools safer.
“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 said.
He said the protest was a one-day peaceful demonstration, adding that any further action would be determined by the union’s national leadership.
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