Insecurity: NUT rejects calls to close schools in Borno, says terrorists must not win

The Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, has ruled out the closure of schools in Borno State despite persistent security threats and the recent abduction of schoolchildren, insisting that shutting down educational institutions would hand terrorists a victory.

The National Publicity Secretary of the union, Comrade Yusuf Tom, made the position known in an interview with The Punch on Tuesday.

Mr Tom, who spoke on behalf of the Borno State NUT Chairman, Zali Garba, said the union remained committed to ensuring that teaching and learning continue across the state despite the security challenges.

According to him, the closure of schools would only serve the interests of insurgents seeking to disrupt education and instill fear among residents.

“We did not order the closure of schools in Borno State. If you close schools, it is a victory for fear,” he said.

“Therefore, we will continue to encourage our teachers to teach in their respective schools as part of efforts to defeat the terrorists’ objective of seeing schools shut down. That is what we are advocating for; we are not calling for the closure of schools.”

Mr Tom said the union’s planned nationwide rally would provide a platform for teachers to demand urgent government intervention over the increasing incidents of abductions affecting schools and communities.

He stressed that access to education is a fundamental human right and expressed concern over the growing threats facing learners and teachers in conflict-affected areas.

“Education is part of human rights, but in recent times, the reverse has been the case. This is why we are organising this rally to make our voices heard and to demand the unconditional release of the learners of Mussa Primary and Secondary School in Askira Uba,” he said.

“These children deserve their human rights. They deserve protection. We want the government to intensify efforts to rescue these children, as well as teachers and other colleagues affected in Borno and other states. The protest will take place nationwide, and we are in solidarity with that.”

The union reiterated its call on security agencies and relevant authorities to strengthen measures aimed at safeguarding schools and ensuring the safety of students and education workers across the country.