In solidarity with their counterparts across the other states of the federation, teachers in Kogi under the State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers have staged a peaceful protest calling for security reforms and end to crimes in the country.
The NUT in Kogi noted the demonstration was based on the need to join growing voices against the wave of kidnappings which the teachers described as a national embarrassment.
The state chairman of the union, Comrade Abayomi Ayoola, speaking with journalists during the protest in Lokoja, where teachers from the three senatorial districts of Kogi State gathered to express concern over the worsening insecurity, said the education community is deeply saddened by the increasing cases of abductions, particularly the recent kidnapping of teachers and pupils in Oyo State.
He called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of all captives and strengthen the nation’s security architecture.
According to him, the circulation of videos showing kidnapped victims has further traumatised citizens and highlights the dangers facing schools and learning environments across the country.
The NUT chairman urged the Federal Government to collaborate with other nations on intelligence gathering, strengthen border security, and improve surveillance systems to ensure the swift identification and prosecution of criminal elements.
He also advocated more responsive governance through job creation, noting that unemployment continues to push many youths into criminal activities.
Ayoola maintained that teachers are playing their role in moulding the character of young people but stressed that religious leaders and organisations must intensify campaigns promoting peace, love, tolerance, and compassion within society.
“We, as members of the union, are appealing to the Federal Government to rejig the security architecture of the country. The issue of kidnappings on a daily basis is traumatic and saddening. It has cast a shadow of grief over the entire nation,” he said.
He added that schools should remain symbols of peace, learning, and civilisation, warning that continued attacks on educational institutions could discourage parents from sending their children to school.
“The country needs to retrace its steps to avoid discouraging parents from sending their children to school. More jobs should be created, and clerics must continue to harp on kindness and peaceful coexistence,” he stated.
Speaking on the issue of ransom payments, Ayoola acknowledged the difficult choices families face when loved ones are abducted, noting that kidnapping has unfortunately become a lucrative enterprise for criminals.
He said that in such circumstances, many people would do everything possible to secure the release of their relatives, underscoring the urgent need for decisive measures to end the menace.
