Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas has ordered the immediate release of all boarding students in public and private schools across the state, directing that schools operate as day institutions for now. The move comes amid growing concerns over student abductions in neighboring states, highlighting the vulnerability of boarding students to terrorist attacks.
The directive was communicated through a letter from the State Commissioner for Education, Dr Augustina Godwin, addressed to all school principals and proprietors. The letter emphasized that the action is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students, referencing recent kidnappings in Kebbi and Niger States. Copies of the letter were also sent to the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Post Primary Schools Management Board and relevant educational associations for immediate implementation.
The decision has drawn strong reactions from religious leaders in the state. Imams of Friday mosques in Jalingo condemned the rising wave of abductions and called for urgent government action to safeguard schools. Sheikh Salihu Barau, Chief Imam of Nana Aisha Central Mosque, stressed that attacks on schoolchildren threaten the future of the region, warning that parents might be discouraged from sending their children to school if such incidents continue.
The Imam urged both Muslims and Christians to unite in sustained prayers for an end to insecurity, emphasizing that protecting students is critical for the development and stability of society. His remarks, resonated with residents concerned about the safety of young people and the future of education in the state.
