The Osun State Government has called an emergency meeting following growing concerns over the safety of schools in remote and border communities, as teachers intensify calls for stronger security measures.
The move comes after the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) in Osun raised fresh alarms over the vulnerability of schools located near forests and state borders, warning that teachers and students remain exposed to attacks by armed criminals and kidnappers.
According to the union, schools situated in isolated communities face significant security challenges due to their distance from major towns and security formations.
Speaking on the development, Osun NUT Chairman Babalola Babatunde said the state government responded swiftly by scheduling an emergency meeting with stakeholders to address the growing concerns.
The union is demanding the deployment of additional security personnel, including operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Department of State Services (DSS), to schools considered high-risk.
Babatunde stressed that educators should be able to carry out their duties without fear, noting that teaching should not become a dangerous profession because of insecurity.
The renewed security concerns are linked to the recent abduction of students and teachers in neighbouring Oyo State, a tragedy that has sparked outrage across the country.
Reports indicate that dozens of students and several teachers were kidnapped during attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area. The incident also claimed the lives of an assistant headmaster and a motorcyclist, while one of the abducted teachers was later reportedly killed by the kidnappers.
The shocking events have triggered protests and solidarity demonstrations in several communities, with teachers demanding urgent action from authorities.
In response, the national leadership of the NUT directed its state chapters to participate in nationwide rallies calling for the unconditional release of the remaining victims and stronger protection for schools across Nigeria.
Meanwhile, both state and federal authorities have stepped up efforts to address the crisis. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has visited affected families, while top federal officials have also engaged with local communities.
President Bola Tinubu has reportedly ordered the deployment of a specialised security team to support rescue operations and strengthen security around vulnerable areas.
As concerns continue to grow, many Nigerians are hoping that urgent intervention will help prevent further attacks on schools and ensure the safety of students and teachers nationwide.
Source: NAN (News Agency of Nigeria)
