***calls for urgent security action
By Florencemary Nwabueze
The Anti-Drug Impact Foundation has condemned the brutal killing of a teacher who was abducted in Oyo State, alongside 6 other teachers and 39 students/pupils, describing the act as barbaric and a direct assault on the future of the nation, citing that teachers are the pillers that trains leaders of tomorrow.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Foundation’s Convener, Comrade Olayiwiola Ibrahim, expressed deep shock and outrage over the incident, which has sent waves of grief through the education community in Oyo state and Nigeria at large.
“Teachers are the backbone of our society. They build minds, shape character, and secure the future of our nation. Targeting them is an attack on the very foundation of our country,” the statement read.
Comrade Ibrahim lamented the tragic reality facing educators, noting that no teacher should go to work and fail to return home. He stressed that the killing of an education professional who chose the noble path of teaching is a loss that affects the entire society.
“This trend of kidnapping and murder of innocent citizens, especially those in the education sector, is unacceptable and must end now,” he added.
The Foundation issued a series of urgent demands to both the Oyo State Government and the Federal Government. These include:
· Swift and decisive action to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they face the full weight of the law, with a warning that “justice delayed is justice denied.”
· Strengthened security around schools and communities across Oyo State to allow teachers and students to teach and learn without fear.
· Intelligence-driven operations and improved inter-agency collaboration to dismantle kidnapping networks operating in the state.
· Support and protection for educators who continue to serve in vulnerable areas despite the risks.
The group reminded the government that the protection of lives and property is it's primary responsibility as enshrined in the Constitution, warning that every day without decisive action emboldens criminals and erodes public trust.
“The people of Oyo State, and Nigerians at large, deserve to feel safe in their communities and schools,” Comrade Ibrahim said.
The Anti-Drug Impact Foundation further extended its condolences to the family of the deceased teacher, the entire teaching community, and all residents of Oyo State. The group pledged to continue advocating for a safer society free from violence, drugs, and crime.