Educationists have backed the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) protest over the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, calling for urgent steps to tackle insecurity.
They told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interviews on Tuesday in Ikorodu that they pledged support for lawful initiatives to secure the release of abducted victims and strengthen security nationwide.
NAN reports that the NUT on Tuesday staged a nationwide solidarity protest to condemn the killing of a teacher and demand the release of other staff and students abducted on May 15 in Oriire Local Government Area in Oyo State.
Alhaji Hamzat Olawale, immediate past Chairman of National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Lagos State Chapter, said government must prioritise the safety of lives and property.
Olawale, also Founder of Homat Group of Schools, described the NUT protest as a legitimate expression of public dissatisfaction over continued insecurity in parts of the country.
“The protest is worth it because it shows that we are not happy with what is happening. These children are leaders of tomorrow and every effort must be made to secure their release,” he said.
Olawale urged citizens to support security agencies with timely information while calling on government to intensify efforts to rid communities of criminal elements.
Also speaking, an educationist, Mr Olanrewaju Elijah, said the rising insecurity across the country had instilled fear in parents, pupils and teachers.
“I know what it means to teach in a Nigerian school at this time. Insecurity has reached a level where parents are threatening to withdraw their children from school.
“Many parents are keeping their children at home because of insecurity. We must not get to a point where we jeopardise the future of our young leaders,” he said.
According to him, many children are being traumatised by reports of abductions and violence against their peers in different parts of the country.
“The country has become so unsafe that children are getting scared. Parents are beginning to feel there is no future for Nigeria, and that is why government must rise to the occasion.
“Enough is enough. Banditry and kidnapping should be stopped. The federal, state and local governments must work together to ensure that the country is safe for our children to learn,” he said.
Elijah appealed to government at all levels to take decisive measures to restore public confidence and guarantee the safety of schoolchildren.
“Every child matters and every life matters. Government should not look away from the tears of parents. Everyone is scared and worried about the safety of their children.
“We want a country where parents can send their children to school without fear. Government must do what is necessary to provide a safe environment for our kids,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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