THE Nigeria Union of Teachers has strongly condemned the recent attacks on schools, teachers and students across parts of the country, describing the incidents as cruel, barbaric and unacceptable.
In a statement jointly signed by the union’s National President, Audu Amba, and Secretary General, Clinton Ikpitibo, the union expressed concern that schools, which are meant to be safe environments for learning, are increasingly becoming targets for armed bandits and terrorists.
According to the union, the growing insecurity around schools has created fear, panic and emotional trauma among teachers, students, parents and residents of affected communities.
The statement followed the attacks carried out on May 15, 2026, at Local Authority Primary School, Ahoro-Esinele, Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, all located in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The union said the attacks resulted in the abduction of a school principal, seven teachers and more than 30 pupils and students, while one teacher was reportedly shot dead during the incident.
The NUT described the killing as particularly heartbreaking, noting that the teacher was wearing his union vest when he was murdered.
It said the deceased was committed to the teaching profession and educational development.
The union also expressed outrage over reports that one of the abducted teachers was later beheaded by the attackers.
It further disclosed 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 teachers’ union said it stands in solidarity with the affected schools, families of the deceased, and all abducted victims.
It called on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the kidnapped teachers, students and school officials without delay.
The union also urged the Federal Government and affected state governments to strengthen security around schools and implement proactive measures aimed at preventing future attacks.
According to the NUT, the continued targeting of schools poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s education sector and the future of children across the country.
“Teachers cannot effectively discharge their duties in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, where they are subjected to kidnapping, violence and killings,” the statement read.
The union warned that teachers across the country may be forced to withdraw their services if attacks on schools continue unchecked.
It therefore appealed to governments at all levels to take urgent steps to secure schools and protect teachers, learners and host communities from further violence.
