Lagos teachers protest as Obasa faults content creators over abduction coverage

Teachers in Lagos State staged a rally Tuesday, demanding the rescue of pupils, students, and teachers abducted from three schools in Oyo State. The protest highlighted concerns that schools are no longer secure environments for teaching and learning.

The demonstration, organized by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), followed a national directive for simultaneous protests across all 36 states due to the escalating wave of kidnappings targeting educational institutions and personnel. Hundreds of teachers marched to the Lagos State House of Assembly, where they were received by Speaker Mudasiru Obasa.

Obasa addressed the protesters, advocating for state policing as a crucial solution to the country's security issues. He noted the recent presidential stance on state police, reinforcing its necessity. "It is not about protesting alone; we all need to come together to find lasting solutions," he stated, emphasizing that security is a shared responsibility beyond government efforts.

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It is not about protesting alone; we all need to come together to find lasting solutions.

The Speaker also criticized some social media content creators for profiting from tragic incidents. "You cannot make a profit out of some people’s misfortune. What we should be doing is looking for lasting solutions and rescuing the teachers and pupils," he urged. He assured the protesters that both federal and state governments are actively working towards the release of the abducted victims, highlighting the concern of President Bola Tinubu and his wife.

Obasa further pointed to Lagos's efforts in strengthening its security architecture through legislation, citing the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps law as an inspiration for regional security outfits. He called for a united front from state governors, council chairmen, and citizens to protect lives across the nation.

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You cannot make a profit out of some people’s misfortune. What we should be doing is looking for lasting solutions and rescuing the teachers and pupils.