The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, has assured teachers that the legislature remains committed to strengthening security in schools, including support for the creation of a State Police Force, following rising concerns over the kidnapping of pupils and teachers in parts of the country.
Obasa gave the assurance on Tuesday when he addressed members of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), who staged a protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly complex in Ikeja over recent abductions in Oyo State and other security challenges affecting schools.
The protesting teachers, led by the Lagos State NUT Chairman, Comrade Hassan Akintoye, condemned the increasing wave of attacks on educational institutions nationwide. They referenced past tragedies such as the Chibok and Dapchi schoolgirl abductions, warning that recent incidents—including reports of a teacher being killed and students assaulted in Oyo State—have deepened fear within the education sector.
Akintoye stressed that schools must remain safe spaces for learning, not “theatres of violence and criminality,” urging urgent intervention from all levels of government to protect students and educators.
In his response, Obasa said the Lagos State House of Assembly has consistently supported the establishment of State Police as part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity. He noted that backing from the federal government, including President Bola Tinubu, strengthens ongoing discussions around the proposal.
He also cautioned against the spread of misinformation on social media, warning that false narratives could worsen public fear and tension.
The Speaker called for collective action involving government institutions, security agencies, traditional rulers, parents, and civil society groups to ensure schools remain safe havens for learning across the country.
