Attacks on schools plan to deny learners right to education — VC

The Acting Vice Chancellor of Al-Muhibbah Open University, Abuja, Prof. Ahmed Salisu Garba, has stated that the frequent attacks on learners and schools in Nigeria, particularly in the North, are part of an agenda to deprive children of their constitutional right to education.

Garba made this statement while delivering a keynote address in Bauchi on Monday at a public hearing on the Safety and Security of Schools Bill 2024.

The event was organised by the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), Syndicate in Supporting Women and Children Initiative, and supported by the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF).

The university don commended the Bill, which has passed the second reading in the Bauchi State House of Assembly, as it is the first in the country aimed at securing schools.

Garba noted that recent years have seen a disturbing increase in attacks on schools nationwide, especially in the northern regions.

“Bandits and insurgents have targeted educational institutions, not only for the ransom they can demand but also as a means to destabilise communities and disrupt the education of our youth.

“These attacks have forced countless schools to close their doors, depriving students of their right to education and leaving communities in fear.

“In the face of such threats, the safety and security of our schools have become paramount. We cannot stand by and allow our children’s education to be held hostage by violence. The Bauchi State Schools’ Safety, Security, and Violence-Free Bill 2024 is a necessary and timely response to these challenges. It offers a comprehensive framework to protect our students, educators, and schools from the dangers that threaten them daily,” he said.

Prof. Kehinde Olayode of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, called on stakeholders to support the passage and implementation of the bill.

Additionally, Maryam Mohammed, Executive Director of Syndicate in Supporting Women and Children Initiative, said that ongoing challenges in Northern Nigeria, including insecurity and violence against educational institutions, have jeopardised this right.

“Let us focus on identifying actionable strategies that will facilitate the successful passage and implementation of the Safe School Declaration Bill. The children of Northern Nigeria deserve the chance to learn and thrive in an environment free from fear and violence,” she said.

The public hearing was attended by officials from the Nigeria Police Force, Ministry of Education, religious organisations, student bodies, traditional institutions, and the media.