● Ojukwu: Attacks on schools breach right to education; calls for Safe Schools Bill passage*
The National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, has called on the Federal Government to urgently secure the release of all abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State and other parts of the country, and ensure perpetrators are prosecuted.
Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, made the appeal Thursday, June 4, 2026, as Nigeria joined the world to commemorate the 2026 International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression.
*“Zero tolerance for attacks on schoolchildren”*
Condemning recent abductions of pupils and teachers in Oyo and Borno states, Ojukwu described the incidents as serious violations of children’s rights and an assault on their rights to education, safety and human dignity.
“Every child has the right to life, dignity, protection and education. Attacks on schools and children constitute a breach of these rights, and the NHRC demands zero tolerance for attacks and violence against schoolchildren,” Ojukwu said.
*Push for Safe Schools Initiative, Bill*
The NHRC chief called for full implementation of the Federal Government’s Safe Schools Initiative through adequate funding for security infrastructure, deployment of trained personnel, provision of safe transit routes and establishment of community-based protection systems.
He also urged the Senate to expedite passage of the Safe Schools Bill proposed by the NHRC and other stakeholders, describing it as a critical step towards strengthening protection of children in educational institutions.
*Enforce Child Rights, UBE Acts*
Ojukwu noted that abductions, sexual violence, trafficking, child labour, recruitment of children by armed groups and corporal punishment contravene Nigeria’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, African Union Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, and the Child Rights Act, 2003.
He said effective enforcement of the Child Rights Act, 2003, across all states and proper implementation of the Universal Basic Education Act, 2004, would reduce children’s vulnerability to exploitation and abuse.
The Commission reaffirmed commitment to monitoring, investigating and seeking redress for violations against children, while advocating increased psychosocial support and creation of safe learning environments free from fear, violence and neglect.
“As we mark this day, we reaffirm that no child should be left behind. Rescue the abducted, prosecute the perpetrators and protect every Nigerian child,” he stated.
