The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools in the South West has issued a strong warning over the rising insecurity affecting schools, threatening to stage coordinated peaceful protests if abducted teachers and pupils in Oyo State and other parts of the country are not freed by June 10.
The association expressed deep concern over the recent kidnapping of teachers and pupils in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident as a direct attack on the education sector and a worrying sign of the worsening security situation across the country.
In a statement released by the South West President of the association, Comrade Deji Olatona, NAPPS said members across the region would mobilise proprietors, teachers, and students to peacefully demonstrate at state Houses of Assembly and governors’ offices if the victims remain in captivity beyond the deadline.
He explained that the planned action would be a collective expression of frustration from private school operators across the six South West states, stressing that the safety of learners and educators must be treated as a priority.
The association noted that the continued abduction of school children and staff poses a serious threat to the future of education, adding that such incidents appear to be an attempt to disrupt one of society’s most important foundations.
NAPPS also called on governors in the South West, traditional rulers, and other influential leaders to work together in strengthening security, especially in border communities where criminal activities have become more frequent.
The group urged authorities to deploy more resources and personnel to protect schools and surrounding communities, warning that inaction could further endanger lives and disrupt academic activities.
It further appealed to both federal and state governments to take urgent and practical steps to address insecurity, insisting that schools must no longer be left vulnerable to attacks.
Reaffirming its position, the association stated its rejection of terrorism, kidnappings, and violence against innocent citizens, while calling for immediate and sustained action to safeguard both public and private educational institutions across the country.
