NUT Raises Alarm Over School Attacks, Warns Strike

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) has strongly condemned the recent attacks on schools, teachers and students in different parts of the country, describing the incidents as barbaric and inhuman.

In a statement jointly signed by the union’s National President, Audu Amba, and Secretary General, Clinton Ikpitibo, the union said schools, which are meant to be safe environments for learning and teaching, have increasingly become targets for armed bandits and terrorists.

According to the union, the attacks have triggered fear, panic and emotional trauma among teachers, students, parents and residents of affected communities.

The statement followed the attacks carried out on 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 on May 15, 2026.

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 painful, noting that the slain teacher was wearing his union attire when he was attacked. The union said he was dedicated to the teaching profession and the advancement of education.

The union also expressed concern over reports that one of the abducted teachers was later beheaded by the attackers.

It further stated that on the same day, over 40 pupils and students were allegedly abducted by armed bandits from Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary Schools in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.

The NUT said it stands in solidarity with the affected schools, the families of the murdered teachers, as well as the abducted principal, teachers, pupils and students.

The union called on security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the immediate and safe release of all abducted victims.

It also urged the Federal Government and affected state governments to improve security around schools and introduce proactive measures to prevent future attacks.

According to the union, the continued targeting of schools poses a serious threat to the 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 inhuman acts of kidnapping, maiming and killing,” the statement said.

The NUT warned that teachers could be forced to withdraw their services if the attacks on schools continue unchecked.

The union further appealed to governments at all levels to urgently address the growing insecurity and guarantee the safety of teachers, students and host communities.