NUT Threatens Nationwide School Shutdown as Child Protection Fears Intensify After Oyo Abduction
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has warned that it may shut down schools nationwide if another attack occurs, as concerns over child safety continue to rise following recent abductions in Oyo State and other parts of the country.
The warning comes as families in Oyo continue to await the safe return of pupils and teachers abducted during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
NUT President, Titus Amba, said teachers can no longer operate under unsafe conditions. He stressed that repeated kidnappings and killings have made schools increasingly dangerous for both staff and pupils.
Amba noted that similar attacks have also been recorded in Borno and Kebbi states. He said these incidents show that the education system is under serious threat.
He described the situation as unacceptable and warned that teachers will withdraw from classrooms if their safety is not guaranteed. According to him, “life first” remains the priority.
The union said the Safe School Initiative has not delivered enough protection for schools. It added that ongoing attacks have weakened confidence in the education system.
From a child protection perspective, the threat of school closures raises fresh concerns for pupils already affected by insecurity. Advocacy groups say prolonged disruption could further damage access to education for vulnerable children.
Child rights stakeholders warn that repeated attacks expose children to trauma, fear, and long-term learning setbacks. They also say uncertainty in school safety could force families to keep children at home.
Security experts continue to identify rural schools as high-risk environments. They recommend stronger community-based protection systems and faster emergency response structures.
Amba also called on communities to take a more active role in safeguarding schools. He said protecting children requires shared responsibility between government and local stakeholders.
As rescue efforts continue in Oyo, families remain anxious about the fate of abducted pupils. Child protection groups stress that urgent reforms are needed to prevent further attacks on schools.
