Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured teachers in the state of the safety and security of schools, teachers and pupils amid growing concerns over attacks on educational institutions across the country.
The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday when members of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Rivers State Wing, staged a peaceful protest to condemn recent attacks on schools and the abduction of teachers and pupils in parts of Nigeria, particularly Oyo State.
The protesters, carrying placards with various inscriptions, marched to Government House in Port Harcourt in solidarity with teachers and students who were kidnapped from schools in Oyo State about two weeks ago and are yet to regain their freedom. The demonstration formed part of a nationwide action by the NUT to draw attention to the security challenges facing schools across the country.
Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, Governor Fubara said the state government was working closely with security agencies to ensure schools in Rivers State remain safe. He assured the union that efforts would continue to prevent incidents of attacks and abductions in the state.
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The governor also urged teachers to remain patient, expressing confidence that the Federal Government was taking steps to secure the release of the abducted teachers and students.
Speaking during the protest, NUT Secretary in Rivers State, Comrade Bassey Asuquo, described the demonstration as a show of solidarity with abducted colleagues and victims of school attacks. He lamented the increasing insecurity facing teachers and called for the immediate release of those still in captivity.
The union also urged federal and state governments to strengthen security around schools and implement comprehensive measures to protect students, teachers and educational facilities nationwide.
