Idara Jerome, Uyo

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Akwa Ibom State chapter, has warned that worsening insecurity across the country could deepen the crisis in the education sector as teachers may become increasingly reluctant to work in vulnerable communities.

The union gave the warning on Tuesday during a protest in Uyo against the abduction of teachers and school children in Oyo State, describing attacks on schools as a major threat to the future of education in Nigeria.

The teachers, who marched along Wellington Bassey Way and adjoining roads, carried placards bearing inscriptions such as “Education Cannot Thrive Under Terror,” “An Attack on Teachers is an Attack on Education,” and “Protect Teachers and You Protect the Future.”

The protest was part of a nationwide demonstration organised by the NUT to condemn the growing spate of kidnappings and attacks targeting schools, teachers and students across the country.

Speaking during the protest, the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the union, Comrade Edet Emenyi, lamented that many teachers now carry out their duties in fear due to the worsening security situation.

According to him, schools that should ordinarily serve as safe centres for learning and development have now become targets for criminals.

“Today, many teachers teach while constantly looking over their shoulders. Education cannot thrive under terror. Teachers need protection, not condolences,” Emenyi stated.

He stressed that continued attacks on teachers and students could discourage educators from accepting postings, especially in rural and high-risk areas.

The union leader noted that insecurity in schools was gradually weakening confidence within the education sector and threatening effective teaching and learning.

He therefore called on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to urgently strengthen security around schools across the country.

Emenyi also demanded the immediate release of all abducted teachers, students and education workers still in captivity.

He further urged government at all levels to improve teachers’ welfare, insisting that educators deserve adequate protection and support to perform their responsibilities effectively.

The protesters maintained that safeguarding teachers and schools was critical to preserving the future of education and national development.